Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Cooking on Stovetop · Storage: Airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Quick Answer
Chocolate Swirl Custard Toast is a delightful combination of custard-soaked bread and chocolate swirl, perfect for a sweet holiday breakfast.As Thanksgiving and Christmas approach, I find myself yearning for cozy gatherings and sweet indulgences that fill the air with warmth and joy. Recently, I stumbled upon a delightful treat that's perfect for the season: Chocolate Swirl Custard Toast. It's a dish that effortlessly combines the silky texture of custard with the comforting crunch of toast-perfect for brunches, holiday breakfasts, or simply a sweet pick-me-up on a chilly New York morning.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
This recipe not only warms the heart but also fills the home with festive aromas, making it an ideal addition to your holiday gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Combines the silky texture of custard with the comforting crunch of toast for a delightful breakfast experience.
- Perfect for holiday gatherings, making it an ideal dish for Thanksgiving and Christmas brunches.
- Quick and easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of loved ones.
- Customizable with spices or fresh fruit, making it a versatile addition to your breakfast repertoire.
- Indulges your sweet tooth with rich chocolate swirls that elevate the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Ingredients
To create this indulgent Chocolate Swirl Custard Toast, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 slices of thick-cut sourdough bread (or your favorite bread)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or your preferred milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, sifted
- 1 tablespoon dark chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
- Pinch of salt
- Butter, for greasing the pan
How to Make Chocolate Swirl Custard Toast (Step-by-Step)
This recipe brings together the delightful textures of custard and toast, creating a cozy dish perfect for any occasion.
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
Start by cracking the eggs into a mixing bowl. Using a whisk, beat the eggs until they are thoroughly mixed. Slowly pour in the whole milk, followed by the vanilla extract and granulated sugar. Mix until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth and creamy. The delightful aroma of vanilla will fill your kitchen.
Step 2: Create the Chocolate Swirl
In a separate bowl, combine the sifted cocoa powder and dark chocolate hazelnut spread. Stir until well combined. The rich, chocolatey aroma at this point is sure to excite any chocolate lover.
Step 3: Dip the Bread
Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter. Take each slice of sourdough bread and dip it into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for about 10 seconds on each side. Ensure that it absorbs enough custard while avoiding sogginess.
Step 4: Swirl in Chocolate
Place the soaked bread in the skillet. Before moving on to the next slice, use a spoon to dollop the chocolate swirl mixture on top of the bread. You can use the back of the spoon to gently spread it and create a marbled effect. The chocolate will begin to melt and blend with the custard, creating a delightful visual.
Step 5: Cook to Perfection
Cook each slice for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the toast is golden brown and crispy on the outside, while the inside remains custardy and soft. A slight jiggle in the center indicates that the custard is perfectly set inside.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the toast from the skillet and serve immediately. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with warm maple syrup for an added festive touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Soaking the bread too long can make it overly soggy and fall apart.
- Using the wrong bread; opt for thick-cut options like sourdough or brioche.
- Skipping the chocolate swirl, which elevates the dish's flavor.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture for added warmth.
- If you have leftover custard, pour it into a greased ramekin and bake for a mini custard cup.
- Pair with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for an extravagant breakfast spread.
Variations
- Substitute almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Use different spreads like peanut butter or almond butter instead of chocolate hazelnut.
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the custard mixture for added texture.
How to Serve
- Dust cooked toast with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Drizzle with warm maple syrup for a festive touch.
- Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the custard mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture revival.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may not hold up well after freezing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Playing around with the custard mixture and the chocolate swirl was a delightful experience that taught me the beauty of balance in flavors. The richness of chocolate melds perfectly with the creamy custard, making it an irresistible treat for any festive morning gathering.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 slices · Serving Size: 1 slice
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~250 calories · 6g protein · 35g carbs · 10g fat
Recipe by:
Delightful Chocolate Swirl Custard Toast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Crack the eggs into a mixing bowl and beat until thoroughly mixed. Slowly pour in the milk, then add vanilla extract and sugar, mixing until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, combine sifted cocoa powder and hazelnut spread until well blended.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and grease it with butter. Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture for about 10 seconds on each side.
- Place soaked bread into the skillet. Dollop the chocolate swirl mixture on top and create a marbled effect using a spoon.
- Cook each slice for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy, with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Remove from skillet and serve immediately, optionally dusting with powdered sugar or drizzling with maple syrup.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Yes! While thick-cut sourdough or brioche works best, you can use any bread you prefer. Just ensure it's sturdy enough to hold the custard without falling apart.
2. How can I tell when the Chocolate Swirl Custard Toast is cooked?
The toast is ready when it is golden brown and crispy on the outside, while still having a slight jiggle in the center. This indicates the custard inside is perfectly cooked.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the custard mixture and chocolate swirl in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.
4. What toppings can I add to the Chocolate Swirl Custard Toast?
You can dust the toast with powdered sugar, drizzle warm maple syrup, or add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor. Fresh fruit or whipped cream also make great accompaniments!
5. How should I store leftovers?
Leftover Chocolate Swirl Custard Toast can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture revival.
