Red Velvet French Toast is like a breakfast treat dressed up for a special occasion. It’s soft, fluffy French toast with that classic red velvet twist—think a hint of cocoa and a beautiful red color that makes the dish pop. Topped with cream cheese glaze or syrup, it’s sweet, comforting, and feels like a little celebration on your plate.
I love making this when I want to surprise my family or friends with something a bit different but still super easy to throw together. The red velvet flavor adds just enough chocolatey goodness without being too much, and the cream cheese glaze gives it a nice tang that balances everything perfectly. I usually mix the batter right before cooking, and it crisps up just the way I like it.
Serving this with fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar makes it even better. It’s one of those breakfasts that can really brighten up a weekend morning or make holiday breakfasts feel extra special. Honestly, it’s hard not to smile while eating it, and I keep coming back to it whenever I want a cozy, sweet morning treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Velvet Cake: Using day-old cake helps the slices hold up without falling apart when dipped. If you don’t have red velvet, plain chocolate or vanilla cake works great too.
Cream Cheese Filling: This adds a tangy, creamy layer that pairs perfectly with the sweet toast. You can swap cream cheese for mascarpone or Greek yogurt if you want a lighter option.
Cocoa Powder: It brings the subtle chocolate note essential to red velvet flavor. Unsweetened cocoa powder is best, but Dutch-process works well too.
Milk & Eggs: Whole milk makes the custard rich, but you can use any milk you like, including plant-based for a dairy-free twist.
How Do You Keep Red Velvet Cake from Getting Too Soggy When Making French Toast?
Because red velvet cake is soft and moist, it’s easy to soak up too much custard and become mushy. Here’s how to keep it just right:
- Use day-old cake so it’s a bit firmer and less fragile.
- Dip each slice quickly—just enough to coat both sides but don’t let it sit in the batter.
- Cook on medium heat so the outside crisps up without the inside turning soggy.
- Use a non-stick pan or a well-greased griddle to help flip gently without breaking.
These tips help the toast hold its shape while giving you a nice crisp edge and soft inside, making every bite satisfying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Non-stick skillet or griddle – perfect for cooking the cake slices evenly without sticking or breaking.
- Mixing bowls – to prepare the egg batter and cream cheese filling separately with ease.
- Whisk – helps blend the eggs, milk, cocoa, and sugar smoothly for a lump-free custard.
- Spatula – great for flipping the French toast gently and spreading cream cheese filling.
- Measuring cups and spoons – ensure you get the right balance of flavors with accurate measurements.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try swapping red velvet cake for chocolate or cinnamon swirl bread for a different twist on flavor and color.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for warm spice notes that complement the cocoa.
- Mix in fresh raspberries or blueberries with the cream cheese filling for a fruity, tangy surprise.
- Top with toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts to add a crunchy texture against the soft French toast.
Red Velvet French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Red Velvet French Toast:
- 8 slices day-old red velvet cake (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- Butter or oil, for cooking
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (to thin)
Toppings:
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Red velvet cake crumbs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep and cooking time. It’s quick to make once your ingredients are ready, so you can enjoy a special breakfast or brunch in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the heavy cream or milk one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the filling is smooth and spreadable. Set aside.
2. Make the Red Velvet French Toast Batter:
In a shallow dish, whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and sugar until everything is combined evenly.
3. Dip the Cake Slices:
Quickly dip each red velvet cake slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides. Be careful not to soak the cake too long to avoid sogginess.
4. Cook the French Toast:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add butter or oil to coat. Cook each cake slice for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly crispy.
5. Assemble the French Toast Stack:
Place one cooked slice on a plate, spread a generous layer of cream cheese filling on top, then add another slice. Repeat layering with filling and slices to make about 3 layers.
6. Top and Serve:
Top your stack with fresh sliced strawberries, a dusting of powdered sugar and red velvet crumbs, then drizzle with maple syrup for a sweet finish.
7. Enjoy Immediately:
Serve warm for the best taste and texture — a delicious treat that’s sure to brighten your morning!
Can I Use Fresh Red Velvet Cake Instead of Day-Old Cake?
Yes, but day-old cake works best because it’s firmer and less likely to fall apart when dipped. If using fresh cake, dip quickly and handle gently to avoid sogginess.
Can I Make the Cream Cheese Filling Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese filling a day in advance and store it tightly covered in the fridge. Give it a quick stir before spreading.
How Do I Store Leftover Red Velvet French Toast?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to keep it moist and tasty.
Can I Substitute the Red Velvet Cake with Another Bread?
Yes! If you don’t have red velvet cake, chocolate or cinnamon swirl bread make great alternatives and still give a delicious flavor twist.
