Decadent Babka French Toast with Raspberry Butter Bliss

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s nothing quite like the thrill of transforming a beloved classic into something unexpected. Picture this: the distinct aroma of chocolate and cinnamon mingling in your kitchen, drawing you into a world of cozy indulgence. That was my experience when I decided to put a twist on the French toast tradition with this delightful Babka French Toast, slathered in luscious raspberry butter. This isn t just a breakfast dish; it s a centerpiece for your weekend brunch that requires minimal effort but brings maximum flavor to the table.

Babka, the rich, braided bread steeped in history, plays the role of star here, infusing each slice with a decadent taste that s both familiar and extraordinary. As you savor every bite, you ll notice the crisp, buttery exterior giving way to a warm, custardy center a texture so luxurious it feels almost like a dessert. Ready to impress your family and friends? This indulgent creation is not only quick to whip up but also destined to become a favorite that keeps fast food firmly off the menu.

Why is Babka French Toast so special?

Indulgence at its finest: Each slice of Babka French Toast is a rich experience bursting with chocolate and cinnamon delights.
Effortless elegance: This quick breakfast transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet dish with minimal effort.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, everyone will ask for seconds!
Versatile flavors: Customize with different fruit preserves or babka varieties to keep it fresh.
Gourmet brunch appeal: Serve with raspberry butter for a truly luxurious touch, making it a standout in any brunch spread.
Enjoy indulging in a slice of happiness without the restaurant price tag!

Babka French Toast Ingredients

Transform your breakfast with these delightful ingredients!

For the Custard

• Large Eggs Adds structure and richness; ensure they re at room temperature for better integration.
• Whole Milk Contributes moisture and flavor; substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
• Kosher Salt Balances sweetness; avoid table salt as it s more concentrated.

For the Babka

• Chocolate Babka (1.5 lb loaf) Provides the base and flavor; choose a denser variety for better texture.
• Unsalted Butter (8 tbsp, divided) Used for cooking and making raspberry butter; can use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.

For the Raspberry Butter

• Seeded Raspberry Preserves (3 tbsp) Adds fruit flavor and creaminess to the butter; fresh raspberries can be mashed as an alternative.
• Ground Cinnamon (1/4 tsp) Enhances warmth and aroma; optional for a deeper flavor.

For Serving

• Pure Maple Syrup Adds classic sweetness and complements the flavors of the Babka French Toast.

Dive into this decadent Babka French Toast and elevate your brunch game!

How to Make Babka French Toast

1. Whisk Together: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, whole milk, and kosher salt to create a rich custard mixture. Aim for a smooth consistency, ensuring everything is well incorporated.

2. Slice the Babka: Carefully slice the chocolate babka into 8 thick pieces, each about ¾ to 1 inch thick. This thickness helps the babka hold its shape while soaking in the custard.

3. Soak the Slices: Gently submerge each slice of babka into the custard mixture, allowing them to soak for about 2-3 minutes. This will help create that soft, custardy interior you desire.

4. Pan-Sear: In a skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the soaked babka slices and pan-sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are beautifully golden brown. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.

5. Prepare the Raspberry Butter: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 4 tablespoons of softened butter with the seeded raspberry preserves. Mix until fully blended for a delightful and creamy spread.

6. Serve: Serve the Babka French Toast warm, generously topped with a dollop of raspberry butter and a light drizzle of pure maple syrup for that perfect finishing touch.

Optional: Garnish with fresh berries for an extra splash of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Babka French Toast Variations

Feel free to personalize your Babka French Toast with these delightful twists that will tantalize your taste buds.

• Cinnamon Babka: Swap chocolate babka for cinnamon babka to embrace a warm, spiced flavor. Each bite will remind you of cozy autumn mornings.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond milk and vegan butter for a plant-based version, ensuring everyone can indulge happily. It s creamy yet light, making mornings a treat for all.
• Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted nuts, such as slivered almonds or walnuts, for added crunch and a delightful texture contrast. This elevates your breakfast to gourmet status with every satisfying bite.
• Fruit Fusion: Incorporate fresh berries or sliced bananas into the custard for a burst of freshness in every slice. This twist adds a lovely fruity sweetness that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
• Maple Bliss: Infuse your custard with a splash of vanilla extract or maple syrup for a deeper, richer flavor profile. It s like a cozy hug for your taste buds!
• Holiday Spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for a holiday-inspired flavor that s sure to bring warmth to your table. Each morsel will feel like a special celebration.
• Savory Shift: Try adding a sprinkle of cheese, like cream cheese or ricotta, between babka layers before soaking for a unique take on savory French toast. It s a surprising and delightful combo!
• Chocolate Heaven: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving for a decadent treat that chocolate lovers will adore. It transforms each bite into a dessert-like wonder.

With these variations, your Babka French Toast will always be exciting and full of flavor, keeping fast food at bay!

Make Ahead Options

These Babka French Toast slices are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy mornings! You can slice the chocolate babka and prepare the custard mixture (eggs, milk, and salt) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Simply soak the babka slices in the custard for 2-3 minutes just before cooking to ensure they retain their fabulous texture and flavor. The raspberry butter can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to a week, allowing those luscious flavors to meld together. When you re ready to enjoy, just pan-sear the soaked slices, and you ll have a delightful brunch dish that tastes just as delicious as if freshly prepared!

What to Serve with Babka French Toast?

Create an unforgettable brunch spread that delights the senses and brings warmth to your table.

• Fresh Berries: Their vibrant colors and natural sweetness balance the richness of the Babka French Toast beautifully. Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a fresh burst of flavor that elevates each bite.

• Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream provides a luscious, creamy counterpart to the decadent chocolate and cinnamon flavors. A dollop on top transforms every slice into a dreamy delight!

• Crispy Bacon: Crispy, salty bacon contrasts brilliantly with the sweetness of the French toast, creating a satisfying flavor dynamic. The crunch pairs well with the soft texture of babka, making it a brunch classic.

• Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top adds an extra flavor layer, enhancing the overall warmth of the dish. This simple touch takes indulgence to the next level!

• Nutella Drizzle: For the true chocolate lover, a drizzle of Nutella can amplify the chocolate notes in the babka, turning your brunch into a decadent treat. Consider serving it warm for that gooey goodness!

• Iced Coffee or Cold Brew: A refreshing iced coffee complements the sweet, rich flavors perfectly. With a hint of cream, it s the ideal drink to sip while enjoying your Babka French Toast.

• Sparkling Water with Lemon: A spritz of refreshing sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon cleanses the palate between bites, making the experience even more enjoyable. Keep your guests feeling invigorated!

Storage Tips for Babka French Toast

• Room Temperature: Allow leftover Babka French Toast to cool completely before storing at room temperature for up to 2 hours to maintain freshness.

• Fridge: Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the flavor and texture of the custard-filled babka.

• Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or place in a toaster for a fresh crispness. Enjoy your delicious Babka French Toast any time!

Tips for the Best Babka French Toast

• Egg Essentials: Use room temperature eggs for better integration into the custard mixture. Cold eggs can create an uneven texture.
• Soaking Time: Don t rush the soaking process; ensure each babka slice absorbs enough custard for a custardy interior.
• Heat Control: Maintain a medium heat to achieve a golden brown exterior without burning. Adjust as necessary while cooking.
• Butter Dilemma: Use unsalted butter to avoid overly salty flavors; this allows for better control over seasoning in your Babka French Toast.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different fruit preserves in the butter; a hint of lemon zest can also brighten up the raspberry flavor beautifully.

Babka French Toast Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chocolate babka for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing your chocolate babka, look for a loaf that s dense and well-baked with a rich chocolate filling. A denser babka will hold up better during soaking, ensuring you achieve that perfect custardy texture. Avoid loaves that appear dry or overly soft, as they might not soak well or provide the delicious contrast of textures you desire in your Babka French Toast.

What s the best way to store leftover Babka French Toast?
For sure! Once your Babka French Toast has cooled completely, you can store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. In the freezer, they ll last for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label the bag with the date, so you can keep track!

Can I freeze Babka French Toast and how should I do it?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Babka French Toast, first, allow the slices to cool completely. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, ensuring they re tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Then, place the wrapped slices into a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the slices in the fridge overnight, and reheat gently in a skillet or toaster for a crispy finish.

What if my Babka French Toast is too soggy?
Oh no! If you find your Babka French Toast is soggy, it may be due to over-soaking the babka. To achieve optimal soaking time, aim for about 2-3 minutes per slice in the custard mixture. If you accidentally soak them too long, try lowering the heat while pan-searing to ensure the exterior cooks and crisps up before the inside gets too mushy. Keep an eye on those beauties as they cook!

Is there a dairy-free option for the raspberry butter?
Very much so! If you re looking for a dairy-free alternative for the raspberry butter, simply substitute the unsalted butter with a vegan butter or coconut oil. Look for brands that mimic the flavor and texture of regular butter to ensure the best outcome. Mix the vegan alternative with seedless raspberry preserves as instructed, and you ll have a delightful spread that s just as luxurious!

Can I use another type of babka or bread for this recipe?
The more the merrier! If you re in the mood to experiment, feel free to switch out chocolate babka for other variations like cinnamon babka or even challah bread. Each type will provide a unique flavor profile, making your Babka French Toast a new experience each time. Just ensure the bread is still rich and fluffy for the best results!