Who can resist the allure of soft, buttery brioche turned into golden French toast? When you add a luscious orange marmalade filling, it takes breakfast to a whole new level. This recipe combines the richness of brioche with the bright, citrusy sweetness of marmalade, creating a dish that’s indulgent yet refreshing.
Stuffed brioche French toast has roots in classic French cuisine but feels right at home on our breakfast table. It’s perfect for special mornings or when we want to impress guests with minimal effort. The contrast between the creamy filling and the crisp, caramelized edges is simply irresistible.
Stuffed Brioche French Toast Orange Marmalade Recipe
Let’s create the ultimate Stuffed Brioche French Toast with Orange Marmalade—a dish as luxurious as it sounds! Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfect balance of sweetness, citrusy tang, and creamy decadence.
Ingredients
Here’s what we’ll need to make 4 servings:
For the French Toast:
- 4 thick slices of brioche bread (about 1 inch each)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for cooking
For the Filling:
- 4 tablespoons orange marmalade
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh orange slices
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Whipped cream
- Maple syrup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Filling
- In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, orange marmalade, and powdered sugar.
- Stir until smooth and creamy. Set aside in the refrigerator to firm up slightly.
Step 2: Slice & Fill the Brioche
- Using a sharp knife, make a small slit on the side of each brioche slice, creating a pocket without cutting through to the edges.
- Take about 1 tablespoon of the prepared cream filling and spoon it into the pocket of each slice of brioche. Press lightly to seal.
Step 3: Whisk the Batter
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well blended.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow dish that can fit the bread slices for easy soaking.
Step 4: Coat the Brioche
- Dip each stuffed brioche slice into the prepared batter for about 10 seconds on each side.
- Ensure the bread is well coated but not overly soaked to avoid breaking apart.
Step 5: Cook the French Toast
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
- Place the soaked brioche slices onto the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crisp at the edges.
- Repeat with remaining slices, adding more butter as needed.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
- Transfer the cooked French toast onto serving plates.
- Dust the tops with powdered sugar.
- Garnish with fresh orange slices and a dollop of whipped cream. Drizzle maple syrup or serve with extra orange marmalade on the side for an indulgent touch.
| Component | Prep Method | Quantity for 4 Servings |
|---|---|---|
| Brioche Slices | Thick cut, center sliced | 4 slices |
| Cream Filling | Mixed with orange marmalade | 4 oz cream cheese, 4 tbsp marmalade |
| Egg Mixture Batter | Whisked and seasoned | 2 eggs, 1/2 cup milk |
Ingredients
This indulgent Stuffed Brioche French Toast with Orange Marmalade requires a few essential components that come together to create a delightful burst of flavors. Below are the ingredients divided into categories for simplicity.
For The French Toast
- 8 slices of brioche bread (each slice 1-inch thick)
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1-2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)
Tip: Using day-old brioche prevents sogginess and ensures the toast holds its shape during cooking.
For The Filling
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1/4 cup orange marmalade
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Key note: Ensure the cream cheese is thoroughly softened to create a creamy, spreadable filling.
For The Orange Marmalade Sauce
- 1/3 cup orange marmalade
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
Pro Tip: Warm the sauce gently over low heat to enhance its glossy texture and blend the flavors beautifully.
Tools And Equipment
To create the perfect Stuffed Brioche French Toast Orange Marmalade, having the right tools and equipment is essential. Here’s a detailed list of what we’ll need to ensure smooth preparation. Each item plays a specific role in achieving the fluffiest toast, the creamiest filling, and that golden, flawless finish.
Essential Tools For Preparation
- Sharp Bread Knife: For slicing the brioche loaf into thick, even slices. Precision here is key to hold the filling properly without breaking the bread.
- Mixing Bowls (2-3): One large bowl for whisking the egg batter, another medium bowl to combine the cream cheese filling, and an optional smaller one if preparing the orange marmalade sauce.
- Whisk: A hand whisk to smoothly blend the egg batter without lumps.
- Rubber Spatula or Spoon: Perfect for evenly spreading the orange marmalade cream cheese mixture onto the bread slices.
Cooking Tools You’ll Use
- Non-Stick Skillet or Griddle: A large, flat surface, preferably non-stick, is necessary to evenly cook the French toast to golden perfection.
- Silicone Tongs or Spatula: Use these to carefully flip the stuffed French toast slices without spilling the creamy filling.
- Pastry Brush (Optional): Useful for lightly buttering the skillet or griddle.
Presentation and Serving Tools
- Small Saucepan: For gently heating the orange marmalade sauce for drizzling over the French toast.
- Sifter or Fine Mesh Strainer: If using powdered sugar for garnish, this tool helps you achieve a light and even dusting.
- Serving Platter or Plates: Choose a large platter if serving family-style or use individual plates for a polished presentation.
Quick Reference Table of Tools
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sharp Bread Knife | To slice brioche without tearing. |
| Mixing Bowls | Combining batter, filling, and sauce. |
| Whisk | Blending eggs, milk, and cream into a smooth consistency. |
| Spatula or Spoon | Spreading the filling evenly. |
| Non-Stick Skillet | Ensuring even cooking without sticking. |
| Silicone Tongs/Spatula | Flipping the toast without breaking it. |
| Pastry Brush | Buttering the cooking surface evenly (optional). |
| Saucepan | For making and warming the orange marmalade sauce. |
| Sifter | Creating a light, decorative dusting of powdered sugar. |
| Serving Platters/Plates | Presenting the toast beautifully. |
With these tools in hand, we’ll set ourselves up for success to recreate every delicious layer and texture of this indulgent breakfast. Remember, using high-quality and clean equipment ensures the dish retains its flavors and elegance.
Directions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this indulgent Stuffed Brioche French Toast with Orange Marmalade. Follow each stage carefully to create a breakfast masterpiece that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.
Prep The Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 4 oz softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup orange marmalade, and 2 tbsp powdered sugar.
- Whisk or beat the mixture until smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps for a silky filling.
- Set the filling aside while we prep the rest.
Prep The Orange Marmalade Sauce
- In a small saucepan over low heat, add 1/3 cup orange marmalade, 2 tbsp fresh orange juice, and 1 tbsp butter.
- Stir continuously until the mixture melts into a smooth, glossy sauce.
- For extra sweetness, you can whisk in 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional).
- Keep the sauce warm on low heat and stir occasionally to avoid separating.
Prep The Brioche Bread
- Using a sharp bread knife, slice 8 thick pieces of brioche. Keep each slice about 1.5 inches thick for the best texture.
- To create pockets for the filling, carefully cut a horizontal slit into the side of each brioche slice without cutting all the way through. This will create a small “pouch” to hold the cream cheese mixture.
Assemble The French Toast
- Take a generous spoonful of the prepared orange marmalade filling and gently stuff it into the pocket of each brioche slice.
- Press the edges lightly to seal the filling inside. Overstuffing may cause the filling to ooze out during cooking, so ensure the slices are filled evenly.
Cook The French Toast
- In a shallow dish, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 cup heavy cream, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add 1 tbsp unsalted butter to coat the pan evenly.
- Dip each stuffed brioche slice into the egg batter, making sure both sides are fully coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off.
- Place the slices on the heated skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges. Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if needed.
- Add more butter to the skillet between batches to ensure perfect browning.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving our Stuffed Brioche French Toast with Orange Marmalade, the presentation plays a key role in elevating this luxurious breakfast to an impressive dining experience. With the combination of creamy filling, golden brioche, and citrusy marmalade, let’s enhance its visual appeal and taste with thoughtful additions and accompaniments.
Plating the French Toast
- Arrange beautifully: Place two slices of the stuffed brioche, slightly overlapping, on a large plate to create a restaurant-quality presentation.
- Dust generously: Sprinkle powdered sugar over the top using a fine-mesh sieve for a snow-dusted effect.
- Drizzle with sauce: Pour the warm orange marmalade sauce over the toasted brioche, letting it pool slightly on the sides for added indulgence.
- Add fresh fruit: Garnish the plate with fresh orange slices or vibrant berries like raspberries or blueberries to complement the citrus theme.
Complementary Toppings
Here are a few toppings to personalize the dish for your guests:
- Whipped cream: Add a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on top for a creamy contrast.
- Nuts: Sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or pistachios for a crunchy element.
- Maple Syrup: Offer warm maple syrup in a small side pitcher for guests who enjoy extra sweetness.
- Zest: Grate fresh orange zest on top to enhance the citrus aroma.
Beverage Pairings
Pairing the French toast with the right beverages rounds out the meal perfectly. Here are a few options to consider:
| Beverage | Description |
|---|---|
| Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice | Highlights the citrus notes of the marmalade, keeping the flavor vibrant and fresh. |
| Coffee or Cappuccino | Rich, robust coffee balances the sweetness of the dish. |
| Hot Cocoa | A kid-friendly option that pairs well with the cozy flavors. |
| Sparkling Mimosa | For brunch, pair with a classic mimosa of champagne and orange juice. |
Occasion-Specific Ideas
- Brunch Spread: Serve alongside savory options like mini quiches or a veggie frittata to balance the meal.
- Holiday Morning Treat: Delight your family by adding festive garnishes like sugared cranberries or edible gold sprinkles for special occasions.
- Dessert Presentation: Transform this into a dessert by serving smaller portions with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
By applying these Serving Suggestions, we can delight both the palate and the eyes, making our Stuffed Brioche French Toast with Orange Marmalade a memorable centerpiece for any mealtime gathering.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Stuffed Brioche French Toast with Orange Marmalade beforehand is a great way to save time, especially for busy mornings or entertaining guests.
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
We start by making the cream cheese and orange marmalade filling in advance. Combine the softened cream cheese, orange marmalade, and powdered sugar in a bowl until smooth. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate it. The filling can be made up to 3 days ahead.
Step 2: Assemble and Refrigerate
If we’d like to prepare fully stuffed brioche slices in advance, we recommend assembling the dish up to this step:
- Slice the brioche into thick pieces.
- Create pockets for the filling and stuff each slice generously with the prepared cream cheese mixture.
- Arrange the stuffed slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking tray. Cover the tray tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
This method allows the brioche to soak up any creaminess that might seep slightly into the bread, intensifying the flavor.
Step 3: Egg Batter Preparation
For best results, we recommend whisking the egg batter fresh to ensure a light and fluffy texture. However, the dry ingredients (sugar, spice, etc.) can be pre-mixed and stored in an airtight container. Once needed:
- Blend eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla, cinnamon, and pre-mixed dry ingredients when ready.
- Use the prepped batter immediately for dipping the brioche slices.
Step 4: Orange Marmalade Sauce
The orange marmalade sauce can also be made early to save prep time during the day of serving. Here’s how:
- Melt the orange marmalade, fresh orange juice, butter, and optional honey or maple syrup in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Once the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, let it cool to room temperature. Store it in a heatproof container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- To serve, reheat the sauce gently in a saucepan or microwave until warm.
Storage Table
To keep track of how long we can store components, here’s a quick-reference table:
| Component | Storage Duration | Storage Method |
|---|---|---|
| Cream Cheese Filling | Up to 3 days | Refrigerate in an airtight container |
| Stuffed Brioche Slices | Overnight (12-24 hours) | Refrigerate, covered |
| Egg Batter (pre-mixed dry) | Up to 3 days | Airtight container, room temp |
| Orange Marmalade Sauce | Up to 5 days | Refrigerate in a heatproof container |
Pro Tips for Make-Ahead Preparation
- Dry Brioche Tip: Use day-old or lightly-staled brioche for better texture, as fresh bread may become too soggy during refrigeration.
- Reheating Toasts: If pre-cooked, warm the stuffed French toast in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to regain its softness and crisp edges.
- Freezer Option: Fully assembled and uncooked slices can be flash-frozen on a tray and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before dipping in batter and cooking.
Conclusion
Stuffed brioche French toast with orange marmalade is more than just a breakfast dish—it’s a culinary experience that brings elegance and indulgence to the table. With its perfect balance of textures and flavors, this recipe is sure to impress whether you’re hosting a brunch or treating yourself to something special.
By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, you’ll be able to create a masterpiece that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. From the creamy filling to the golden, caramelized crust, every bite is a celebration of flavor. Let’s make mornings extraordinary!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is stuffed brioche French toast?
Stuffed brioche French toast is a luxurious breakfast dish made from thick slices of buttery brioche bread filled with a creamy mixture, such as cream cheese and orange marmalade, then dipped in an egg batter and cooked until golden brown.
2. What makes brioche the best choice for French toast?
Brioche is perfect for French toast because of its rich, buttery texture. It absorbs the egg batter well without getting soggy, especially if you use slightly stale or day-old bread.
3. Can I prepare stuffed brioche French toast ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Assemble the stuffed brioche slices and store them in the refrigerator overnight. You can also pre-mix the egg batter and prepare the sauce a day ahead.
4. How do I prevent soggy French toast?
To avoid soggy French toast, use day-old brioche, avoid over-soaking the slices in the egg batter, and cook on medium heat to ensure the exterior crisps up while the inside remains moist.
5. What ingredients do I need for the cream cheese filling?
The cream cheese filling requires softened cream cheese, orange marmalade, and powdered sugar. These ingredients create a creamy, tangy, and sweet filling.
6. How should I cook the stuffed brioche slices?
Dip the stuffed brioche slices in the egg batter and cook them in a preheated non-stick skillet with butter over medium heat until both sides are golden brown.
7. What toppings go well with stuffed brioche French toast?
Popular toppings include powdered sugar, whipped cream, fresh fruit, maple syrup, nuts, or warm orange marmalade sauce for a luxurious touch.
8. Can I freeze stuffed brioche French toast?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked stuffed brioche slices. Wrap them individually, then thaw and cook directly when ready. This helps save time for busy mornings.
9. What beverages pair well with this dish?
Stuffed brioche French toast pairs wonderfully with freshly squeezed orange juice, coffee, hot cocoa, or sparkling mimosas for special occasions.
10. Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! This recipe is indulgent and elegantly presented, making it ideal for brunch, holidays, or entertaining guests. Customize it with garnishes to make it extra special.