Tiramisu and French toast were probably going to find each other eventually.
Thick brioche gets soaked in an espresso-spiked custard, browned in butter, then piled with lightly sweetened mascarpone cream, cocoa, chocolate, and enough coffee-shop energy to make breakfast feel like dessert wearing business casual.
It is excessive.
That is why we are here.
Servings: 4
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 15 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the French Toast
- 8 thick slices brioche
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, plus more as needed
For the Mascarpone Cream
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Finish
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Shaved or chopped dark chocolate
- Optional crushed ladyfingers
- Optional maple syrup
- Optional extra espresso for drizzling
Make It
1. Make the mascarpone cream.
Add the mascarpone, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla to a bowl.
Beat until smooth, fluffy, and thick enough to pile dramatically onto French toast.
Refrigerate while you make everything else.
2. Build the custard.
Whisk together the eggs, milk, espresso, sugar, vanilla, and salt in a shallow bowl.
3. Soak the brioche.
Dip each slice of brioche into the espresso custard, letting it absorb the mixture without becoming completely soaked through.
A few seconds per side is plenty.
4. Get it golden.
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook the brioche for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until deeply golden outside and soft in the center.
Work in batches and add more butter when necessary.
5. Build the ridiculous part.
Stack two slices of French toast on each plate.
Add a generous spoonful of mascarpone cream.
Dust heavily with cocoa powder.
Finish with chopped chocolate and crushed ladyfingers if using.
Foodoobie Move
Mix a tablespoon or two of espresso with a little maple syrup and drizzle it over the finished toast.
Now breakfast has officially lost control of the situation.
The Verdict
TIRAMISU HAS ENTERED BREAKFAST.
