Cannoli French Toast: The Ultimate Italian-Inspired Breakfast Recipe

Cannoli French Toast: Prepare to experience a breakfast revolution! Imagine the crispy, golden-brown perfection of French toast, but infused with the creamy, sweet, and slightly citrusy flavors of a classic Italian cannoli. It’s a decadent dream come true, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll never look at French toast the same way again.

The cannoli, a beloved Sicilian pastry, boasts a rich history dating back to ancient Roman times. Some believe it originated as a fertility symbol, while others claim it was created by nuns in convents. Regardless of its exact origins, the cannoli has become a symbol of Italian-American culture, often enjoyed during celebrations and holidays. Its crispy shell and sweet ricotta filling are a testament to simple ingredients transformed into something truly extraordinary.

So, why do people adore cannoli? It’s the delightful contrast of textures – the crunchy shell against the smooth, creamy filling. It’s the sweet, slightly tangy flavor that dances on your tongue. And now, we’re bringing all that magic to your breakfast table! This Cannoli French Toast recipe captures the essence of the classic dessert, offering a unique and unforgettable twist on a breakfast staple. It’s surprisingly easy to make, perfect for weekend brunches, special occasions, or simply when you’re craving a little bit of indulgence. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this incredibly delicious and innovative dish!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• For the Cannoli Cream:
• 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese, drained well
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons candied orange peel, finely chopped (optional)
• For the French Toast:
• 8 slices challah bread or brioche bread, about 1 inch thick
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons butter, for cooking
• Vegetable oil, for cooking (optional, if needed to prevent burning)
• For the Garnish:
• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Mini chocolate chips
• Chopped pistachios
• Candied orange peel, finely chopped (optional)

Preparing the Cannoli Cream:

1. Drain the Ricotta: This is the most important step! Place the ricotta cheese in a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth (or a paper towel) set over a bowl. Let it drain in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This removes excess moisture and ensures a smooth, creamy filling. I usually press down gently on the ricotta with a spoon to help release the water.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the drained ricotta cheese, sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Sifting the powdered sugar is crucial to avoid lumps in your cream.
3. Mix Until Smooth: Use an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer) to beat the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the ricotta grainy.
4. Fold in Chocolate Chips and Orange Peel: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and candied orange peel (if using). I like to use a spatula for this step to avoid breaking the chocolate chips.
5. Chill the Cream: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cannoli cream for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cream to firm up slightly. This will make it easier to spread on the French toast later.

Preparing the French Toast Batter:

1. Whisk the Eggs: In a shallow dish or baking pan (large enough to fit a slice of bread), whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined and the sugar is dissolved.
2. Prepare the Bread: Lay out your slices of challah or brioche bread. These breads are ideal because they are sturdy enough to soak up the batter without falling apart.

Cooking the French Toast:

1. Soak the Bread: Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Let the bread soak for about 30-60 seconds per side, allowing it to absorb the batter. Don’t soak it for too long, or it will become soggy and difficult to handle.
2. Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely. If you’re concerned about the butter burning, you can add a teaspoon or two of vegetable oil to the pan as well.
3. Cook the French Toast: Carefully place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your bread and the heat of your pan.
4. Keep Warm (Optional): If you’re making a large batch of French toast, you can keep the cooked slices warm in a preheated oven (200°F) until ready to serve. Place the French toast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Assembling the Cannoli French Toast:

1. Spread the Cannoli Cream: Once the French toast is cooked, transfer it to a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of the chilled cannoli cream over each slice.
2. Garnish: Dust the French toast with powdered sugar. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips, chopped pistachios, and candied orange peel (if using). Get creative with your garnishes!
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the Cannoli French Toast immediately while it’s still warm and the cannoli cream is cold and creamy.

Tips and Variations:

• Ricotta Cheese: Using high-quality, whole milk ricotta cheese is essential for the best flavor and texture. Make sure to drain it well!
• Bread Choice: Challah or brioche bread are my top choices for French toast, but you can also use Texas toast or any other thick-cut bread.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavorings in the cannoli cream. You could add a splash of almond extract, a pinch of nutmeg, or even a tablespoon of rum.
• Chocolate Chips: I prefer mini chocolate chips in the cannoli cream, but you can also use regular-sized chocolate chips or even chopped dark chocolate.
• Nuts: Pistachios are the traditional nut used in cannoli, but you can also use almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
• Fruit: Fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, make a delicious addition to this French toast.
• Syrup: While this French toast is delicious on its own, you can also serve it with maple syrup, chocolate syrup, or a homemade berry sauce.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the cannoli cream a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. You can also cook the French toast ahead of time and reheat it in the oven or microwave. However, I recommend assembling the French toast just before serving for the best texture.
• Dietary Considerations: To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free bread. To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free ricotta cheese and milk alternatives.

Troubleshooting:

• French Toast is Soggy: Make sure you don’t soak the bread for too long. Also, make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the bread.
• Cannoli Cream is Runny: This is usually due to not draining the ricotta cheese well enough. Make sure to drain it for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
• French Toast is Burning: Reduce the heat of your skillet and add a little more butter or oil to the pan.
• Cannoli Cream is Lumpy: Make sure to sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the ricotta cheese.

Serving Suggestions:

• Brunch: This Cannoli French Toast is perfect for a special brunch. Serve it with a side of bacon or sausage and a glass of orange juice or mimosa.
• Dessert: This French toast also makes a decadent dessert. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Special Occasions: This recipe is perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any other special occasion. It’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Calories: 450-550 per serving
• Fat: 25-35 grams
• Saturated Fat: 15-20 grams
• Cholesterol: 150-200 mg
• Sodium: 200-300 mg
• Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
• Sugar: 25-35 grams
• Protein: 10-15 grams

Enjoy your delicious Cannoli French Toast! I hope you love it as much as I do.

Conclusion:

This Cannoli French Toast isn’t just breakfast; it’s a decadent experience, a sweet escape, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I truly believe you’ll find yourself making this recipe again and again. The crispy, golden-brown French toast, soaked in a creamy, ricotta-infused custard, combined with the chocolate chips and candied citrus, creates a symphony of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s the perfect way to elevate your weekend brunch or surprise your loved ones with a truly special treat.

But why is this recipe a must-try? It’s simple: it takes the familiar comfort of French toast and elevates it to a whole new level of indulgence. It’s unexpected, it’s delicious, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. The ricotta filling adds a richness and creaminess that you won’t find in your average French toast recipe, and the chocolate chips and candied citrus provide a delightful burst of sweetness and tanginess. It’s a flavor combination that just works, creating a truly unforgettable breakfast or brunch experience.

And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your own taste preferences. For a more intense chocolate flavor, try using dark chocolate chips or adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the ricotta filling. If you’re not a fan of candied citrus, you can substitute it with chopped nuts, such as pistachios or almonds, for a delightful crunch. You could even add a splash of almond extract to the custard for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving suggestions are endless! A dusting of powdered sugar is always a classic choice, but you can also drizzle it with maple syrup, chocolate sauce, or even a homemade berry compote. For a truly decadent experience, top it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. Serve it alongside a side of fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced bananas, for a balanced and satisfying meal. You can even cut the French toast into smaller pieces and serve it as a dessert appetizer at your next party.

Don’t be intimidated by the name – this Cannoli French Toast is surprisingly simple to make. The recipe is straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available. With just a few simple steps, you can transform ordinary bread into a culinary masterpiece. I’ve tried to make the instructions as clear and concise as possible, so even beginner cooks can achieve perfect results.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe that I urge you to give it a try. Don’t just take my word for it – experience the magic of Cannoli French Toast for yourself! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you think of the flavor combination? What did your family and friends think?

Please, share your photos and stories in the comments below. I’m always eager to see how my recipes turn out in your kitchens and to hear your feedback. Your comments and suggestions help me to improve my recipes and to create even more delicious and exciting dishes for you to enjoy. So, go ahead, get in the kitchen, and whip up a batch of this incredible Cannoli French Toast. You won’t regret it! Happy cooking!