Red Velvet French Toast

• slices white bread, crusts cut off (slightly stale works best)↗4 slices
• eggs↗2
• cocoa powder↗1 tablespoon
• sugar↗1 tablespoon
• buttermilk↗1⁄2 cup
• red food coloring↗1 tablespoon
• vanilla extract↗1 1⁄2 teaspoons
• butter↗3 tablespoons
• cream cheese↗4 ounces

  softened

• confectioners' sugar, plus extra for dusting↗5 tablespoons
• chocolate syrup

  for serving

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Whisk together the eggs, cocoa powder, sugar, buttermilk, food coloring and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.

2. 2

   Heat a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium heat.

3. 3

   Add the 2 tbsp butter to the pan, swirling to coat the bottom.

4. 4

   Soak bread slices in egg mixture on each side about 30 seconds.

5. 5

   Add to the pan and cook about 1 minute per side, until browned and cooked through.

6. 6

   Remove from heat to a wire rack lined sheet pan.

7. 7

   Beat together the cream cheese, confectioner’s sugar and remaining butter and vanilla.

8. 8

   Divide the cream cheese mixture between 2 slices of french toast, spreading to coat. Top with second slice.

9. 9

   Cut in half cross-wise drizzle with chocolate syrup and dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving.