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Chocolate French Toast Casserole

A decadent dish that combines rich chocolate with soft, custardy bread, perfect for family breakfasts and special occasions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 1 loaf Challah bread The base for the casserole, adding texture and sweetness.
  • 8 large eggs Create structure and richness while helping bind the ingredients together.
  • 2 cups half-and-half Adds creaminess and a luxurious texture.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Enhances flavor with a warm aromatic touch.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Provides warmth and a hint of spice.
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt Balances the sweetness of the dish.
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Deepens the chocolate flavor without adding extra sweetness.
  • 1 packet Instant hot cocoa dry mixture Boosts the chocolate flavor and provides extra sweetness.
  • 1 cup chocolate chips For bursts of sweet, melted chocolate throughout the casserole.
  • 1/2 cup butter Adds richness and helps create a luscious topping.
  • 1/2 cup dark brown sugar Sweetens and adds depth with its molasses flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. STEP 1. Prepare the egg mixture. Add eggs, half-and-half, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, cocoa powder, and one Instant packet of hot cocoa to a large mixing bowl. Whisk well to combine until the mixture is smooth and shiny.
  2. STEP 2. Coat the bread. Add the challah bread pieces to the bowl in a few batches. Gently stir to ensure the bread is coated and has absorbed the mixture.
  3. STEP 3. Assemble the casserole. Add bread to the prepared baking dish and top it with chocolate chips, repeating this with the remaining bread.
  4. STEP 4. Pour remaining mixture. Pour any remaining chocolate mixture over the bread.
  5. STEP 5. Prepare the topping. Add butter and brown sugar to a small saucepan and melt over medium heat, stirring continuously for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture is smooth and shiny.
  6. STEP 6. Apply the topping. Pour the melted butter and brown sugar mixture over the bread.
  7. STEP 7. Chill overnight. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and place in refrigerator overnight.
  8. STEP 8. Bake the casserole. Preheat oven to 350°F. Allow the casserole to stay at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before transferring to the oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown, starting to check at 25 minutes.
  9. STEP 9. Serve. Once baked, serve immediately, preferably with maple syrup and fresh fruits.

Notes

Ideal for feeding a crowd. Add extra chocolate chips on top before baking for a more decadent finish. Can add nuts or experiment with flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut.