How to make the Best French Toast Ever
How to make the BEST French Toast EVER 😳 is a easy American recipe that serves 2. 380 calories per serving. Recipe by Josh & Momma on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 10 min | Total: 25 min
Cost: $16.38 total, $8.19 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 slices Thick Bread Slices (Day‑old brioche or challah works best)
- 2 Large Eggs (Room temperature)
- 1/2 cup Whole Milk (Can use 2% or skim)
- 3 tablespoons Extra‑Creamy Chocolate Spread (Nutella‑style, adds flavor and helps the coating stick)
- 2 scoops Vanilla Ice Cream (Will be melted into a sauce; use premium brand for richer flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Divided: 1 Tbsp for pan, 1 Tbsp mixed into sauce)
- 1 tablespoon Powdered Sugar (For dusting finished toast)
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Adds warm spice to the batter)
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor)
- 1 pinch Pinch of Salt
Instructions
Make the Custard Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until fully combined and slightly frothy.
Time: PT3M
Add Chocolate to the Batter
Stir in the extra‑creamy chocolate spread until the batter is uniformly chocolate‑brown and smooth.
Time: PT2M
Pre‑heat the Skillet
Place the skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter, swirling to coat the surface.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: Medium heat
Dip and Cook the Bread
One at a time, dip each bread slice into the batter, allowing it to soak for 5‑7 seconds per side, then place in the hot skillet. Cook 3‑4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crisp.
Time: PT8M
Temperature: Medium heat
Prepare the Chocolate‑Ice Cream Sauce
While the toast cooks, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, vanilla ice cream, and any leftover chocolate spread in a small saucepan. Heat over low‑medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and glossy.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: Low‑medium heat
Plate and Finish
Transfer the cooked French toast to a plate, drizzle generously with the warm chocolate‑ice‑cream sauce, and dust with powdered sugar.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 380
- Protein
- 12 g
- Carbohydrates
- 45 g
- Fat
- 18 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian
Allergens: Eggs, Milk, Gluten, Soy (in some chocolate spreads)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Thick Bread Slices: Texas toast, French baguette (cut thick)
- Instead of Large Eggs: Egg substitute, 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce per egg
- Instead of Whole Milk: Almond milk, Soy milk
- Instead of Extra‑Creamy Chocolate Spread: Chocolate hazelnut spread, Melted dark chocolate
- Instead of Vanilla Ice Cream: Vanilla frozen yogurt, Heavy cream with vanilla extract
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine, Coconut oil
- Instead of Powdered Sugar: Granulated sugar (sprinkled), Coconut sugar
- Instead of Ground Cinnamon: Nutmeg, All‑spice
- Instead of Vanilla Extract: Maple extract, Almond extract
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or Fork
- Skillet or Griddle
- Spatula
- Saucepan (small)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Plate
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Pre‑heating the skillet to the right temperature ensures the toast cooks evenly without becoming soggy.
- Cooking the bread only until golden brown prevents a burnt exterior while keeping the interior soft.
- Making the chocolate‑ice‑cream sauce over low‑medium heat avoids scorching and yields a smooth glaze.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use day‑old brioche or challah; stale bread absorbs the custard without falling apart.
- A pinch of salt in the batter balances the sweetness of the chocolate.
- For extra crunch, add a thin layer of crushed toasted almonds on top of the sauce.
Troubleshooting
French toast is soggy.
Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the bread and cook each side until golden brown; avoid using overly fresh, soft bread.
Sauce is grainy or burnt.
Cook the sauce over low‑medium heat, stirring constantly, and add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Chocolate does not stick to the bread.
Use extra‑creamy chocolate spread and ensure the batter is well‑mixed; let the bread soak briefly but not too long.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently in a skillet.
Freezer: Not recommended due to texture changes in the sauce.
Room temperature: Serve immediately; do not leave at room temperature for more than 1 hour.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the custard batter up to 2 hours ahead and keep refrigerated.
- The chocolate‑ice‑cream sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Chocolate French Toast in American cuisine?
Chocolate French toast is a modern American twist on the classic French toast, which dates back to medieval Europe. Adding chocolate and ice‑cream sauce reflects the U.S. love for indulgent breakfast‑brunch dishes and the trend of turning comfort foods into dessert‑style meals.
What are the traditional regional variations of French toast in the United States?
In the Southern U.S., French toast is often served with powdered sugar and butter, while in the Northeast it may be topped with maple syrup or fruit compote. Some regions add cinnamon‑sugar crusts, and recent trends include chocolate, caramel, or savory toppings.
How is Chocolate French Toast traditionally served in American brunch culture?
It is typically plated as thick slices, drizzled with a warm chocolate or ice‑cream sauce, dusted with powdered sugar, and sometimes accompanied by fresh berries or a side of whipped cream. It is enjoyed as a sweet main or a dessert‑brunch hybrid.
What occasions or celebrations is Chocolate French Toast associated with in American culture?
Chocolate French toast is popular for weekend brunches, holiday breakfasts (like Easter or Christmas), and special occasions such as birthdays or Mother’s Day when a decadent treat is desired.
What authentic ingredients are essential for a classic Chocolate French Toast versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include thick‑cut bread (brioche or challah), eggs, milk, and a high‑quality extra‑creamy chocolate spread. Substitutes can be any sturdy bread, plant‑based milk, or melted dark chocolate, but the texture and flavor may vary.
What other American breakfast dishes pair well with Chocolate French Toast?
Pairs nicely with fresh fruit salad, a side of crispy bacon for a sweet‑savory contrast, or a light green salad with citrus vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Chocolate French Toast?
Common mistakes include using a pan that isn’t hot enough, which leads to soggy toast, over‑cooking the sauce causing it to burn, and using overly fresh bread that falls apart in the batter.
Why does this Chocolate French Toast recipe use extra‑creamy chocolate spread instead of melted chocolate chips?
The extra‑creamy spread stays fluid at lower temperatures, helping it coat the bread evenly and bind to the batter, whereas chocolate chips can seize and become grainy when mixed with the custard.
Can I make Chocolate French Toast ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the batter up to 2 hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. Cooked toast can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in a skillet; the sauce should be reheated gently over low heat.
What texture and appearance should I look for when making Chocolate French Toast?
The exterior should be a deep golden‑brown with a slight crisp, while the interior remains soft and custardy. The chocolate‑ice‑cream sauce should be glossy and smooth, coating the toast without pooling.
How do I know when the Chocolate French Toast is done cooking?
When the edges turn golden and the surface feels firm to the touch, a quick tap with a spatula should produce a slight spring. The internal temperature should reach about 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
What does the YouTube channel Josh & Momma specialize in?
The YouTube channel Josh & Momma focuses on family‑friendly home cooking, showcasing simple yet creative recipes that blend classic comfort foods with playful twists, often featuring kid‑approved meals and quick weeknight dishes.
How does the YouTube channel Josh & Momma's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Josh & Momma emphasizes real‑life kitchen improvisation, using everyday pantry items and encouraging viewers to experiment (like melting ice cream for sauce). Their style is informal, interactive, and centered on family participation rather than polished restaurant‑style presentations.
What other American breakfast recipes is the YouTube channel Josh & Momma known for?
Josh & Momma is known for recipes such as Fluffy Pancake Stacks, Cheesy Bacon Egg Muffins, and Cinnamon Roll French Toast, all featuring approachable steps and kid‑friendly flavors.
Last updated: September 4, 2026
