Cannoli French Toast Recipe
Indulge in a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite with Cannoli French Toast. This recipe combines the creamy sweetness of ricotta cheese filling with the rich, custardy texture of brioche bread dipped in an egg mixture. Cooked to golden perfection in a skillet, this dish offers the luscious flavors of traditional Italian cannoli in a comforting, warm French toast form, perfect for weekend brunches or special occasions.
- Author: Caleb
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2 (2 sandwiches) 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Bread
- 4 slices thick brioche bread
Ricotta Filling
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Batter
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Cooking
Toppings (optional)
- Fresh berries
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and ground cinnamon until smooth and well combined, creating a sweet, creamy filling reminiscent of classic cannoli.
- Whisk Batter: In another bowl, thoroughly whisk together the eggs, whole milk, and pure vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy, forming the custard base for the French toast.
- Dip the Bread: Coat each slice of thick brioche bread in the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are fully submerged and soaked to absorb the custard.
- Stuff the Bread: Spread the ricotta filling evenly between two slices of the dipped brioche bread, then gently press them together to sandwich the filling without spilling.
- Cook: Heat a generous pat of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the stuffed bread sandwich in the skillet and cook for approximately three minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and slightly crispy, and the filling is warmed through.
- Serve: Transfer the Cannoli French Toast to a plate. Dust with powdered sugar, add fresh berries on top if desired, and drizzle with maple syrup for a sweet, fruity finish.
Notes
- Use thick slices of brioche to hold the filling well and prevent sogginess.
- Whole milk ricotta is preferred for creaminess, but part-skim can be used for a lighter version.
- Adjust cinnamon quantity to taste or add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the bread before the filling warms through.
- Serve immediately for best texture; leftovers can be reheated gently in a skillet or oven.
- Optional toppings like chopped pistachios or mini chocolate chips can enhance the cannoli flavor.
Keywords: Cannoli French Toast, ricotta French toast, stuffed French toast, Italian breakfast recipe, sweet French toast, brioche French toast, creative breakfast ideas