Make Ahead Chocolate French Toast

Indulge in the decadent comfort of Make Ahead Chocolate French Toast, a crowd-pleasing brunch favorite that's as convenient as it is delicious. This recipe layers thick slices of challah or brioche in a rich, velvety custard made with eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, and a hint of cinnamon for a subtle spice. Studded with melty chocolate chips and baked to golden perfection, this overnight French toast casserole is designed to soak up all the flavors while you rest, making it the ultimate make-ahead dish for busy mornings or holiday gatherings. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup, it's the perfect combination of chocolatey indulgence and French toast nostalgia. Whether you're hosting a brunch party or treating your family to a special breakfast, this easy-to-prep recipe guarantees rave reviews.

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1 loaf Challah bread (or brioche)
• 6 large Eggs
• 2 cups Whole milk
• 1 cup Heavy cream
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 1 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon Vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
• 1 cup Chocolate chips (semisweet or dark)
• 2 tablespoons Powdered sugar (optional, for garnish)
• 0.25 cup Maple syrup (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Slice the challah bread into 1-inch-thick slices and set aside.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and well combined.

Step 3

Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 4

Arrange the bread slices in the baking dish, overlapping them slightly if necessary.

Step 5

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring each slice is well-coated. Use a spatula to press the bread down lightly so it absorbs the liquid.

Step 6

Sprinkle chocolate chips over the top, tucking some between layers of bread if desired.

Step 7

Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 8

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes while the oven preheats.

Step 9

Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is set and slightly crispy.

Step 10

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Step 11

Dust with powdered sugar for garnish and serve warm with maple syrup, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2245.8 grams (2245.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5543

Total Fat 245.20g	314%
Saturated Fat 131.40g	657%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.50g
Cholesterol 1592mg	531%
Sodium 2593mg	113%
Total Carbohydrate 795.80g	289%
Dietary Fiber 114.90g	410%
Total Sugars 425.30g
Protein 164.80g	330%

Vitamin D 461IU	2304%
Calcium 1517mg	117%
Iron 66mg	369%
Potassium 6202mg	132%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 36.5%

Protein: 10.9%

Carbs: 52.6%