Red Velvet French Toast is a fun and festive twist on classic breakfast. Imagine thick slices of bread dipped in a red velvet batter, giving you hints of cocoa and a beautiful reddish color that makes mornings feel extra special. The outside gets crispy while the inside stays soft and tender, usually topped with cream cheese glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar.
I love making Red Velvet French Toast when I want something a little different for weekend brunch or a holiday morning. It’s not only tasty but looks amazing on the plate, which always gets compliments from family or guests. For an extra touch, I like to add fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup—makes each bite even better.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how it turns breakfast into a celebration. It’s perfect for birthdays or cozy mornings when you want to treat yourself without too much fuss. Plus, it’s easy to adjust, so if you want it sweeter or with more chocolate flavor, you can make it just how you like it.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Brioche or challah are my top picks because they soak up the egg mixture well without falling apart. If you don’t have these, thick white sandwich bread or Texas toast works fine, just avoid thin slices.
Buttermilk: Adds a subtle tang and helps tenderize the bread. You can substitute with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar if needed.
Red food coloring: It gives that classic red velvet look. If you prefer to avoid food dye, try beet juice for a natural alternative, though the color will be softer.
Cocoa powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder is key for the chocolate flavor. Use Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer taste, but natural cocoa works well too.
Cream cheese frosting: The sweet, tangy cream cheese spread is a must for that red velvet vibe. If you want a lighter option, plain Greek yogurt or mascarpone can be used.
How Do You Soak the Bread Without It Falling Apart?
Getting the bread perfectly soaked is important. If it’s too dry, it won’t flavor well. If soaked too long, it can get soggy and break apart. Here’s how I do it:
- Whisk the egg mixture thoroughly so it’s smooth and evenly colored.
- Dip each bread slice for about 5 seconds per side—just enough to absorb the batter but still hold its shape.
- Let excess drip off before placing bread on the skillet to avoid sogginess and sticking.
- Use thick, sturdy bread to prevent tearing, and handle gently when flipping.
This method keeps the red velvet French toast tender and rich, without falling apart in your pan.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or griddle – perfect for evenly cooking the French toast slices without burning.
- Mixing bowls – I use one for the egg batter and one for the cream cheese frosting for easy prep.
- Whisk – helps mix the egg batter smoothly and blend the cream cheese frosting perfectly.
- Spatula – great for flipping the French toast gently without breaking the slices.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the red velvet batter just right every time.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for warm, cozy spice notes.
- Swap cream cheese frosting with mascarpone mixed with a little honey for a lighter, creamier spread.
- Mix mini chocolate chips into the batter to add little melty chocolate bursts in each bite.
- Top with toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch and a nutty contrast to the soft French toast.
How to Make Red Velvet French Toast?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The French Toast:
- 4 slices thick bread (preferably brioche or challah)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Butter or oil for frying
For The Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving and Garnish:
- Fresh strawberries and raspberries
- Whipped cream
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep and cooking time. It’s quick to mix the batter, cook the French toast slices, and prepare the cream cheese frosting. You’re ready to serve in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Egg Batter:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and salt until everything is well combined and smooth.
2. Cook the French Toast:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a little butter or oil to coat the surface. Dip each slice of bread into the red velvet egg mixture, soaking both sides but being careful not to let the bread fall apart. Cook each slice for 3-4 minutes on each side, until cooked through with a slightly crisp outside. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
While the French toast cooks, mix the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This will give your French toast that classic red velvet cream cheese flavor.
4. Assemble and Serve:
Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on one slice of French toast and top it with another slice to make a sandwich. Place on your serving plate and garnish with whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and raspberries. Drizzle maple syrup over the top and dust lightly with powdered sugar.
Can I Use Frozen Bread for Red Velvet French Toast?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the bread completely before dipping it in the batter so it soaks up the mixture evenly without falling apart. Slightly stale bread also works great for better absorption.
How Do I Store Leftover Red Velvet French Toast?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for about 30 seconds, adding a little butter if desired to refresh the texture.
Can I Skip the Red Food Coloring?
Absolutely! If you prefer to avoid artificial colors, you can omit it or use natural alternatives like beet juice, but the vibrant red color will be less intense. The flavor will still be delicious.
Can I Make the Cream Cheese Frosting Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese frosting a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Bring it to room temperature and give it a quick stir before spreading on your French toast for the best texture.