Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Decadent Chocolate Almond French Toast Bake?
It is a rich breakfast casserole made with brioche or challah bread, chocolate milk, heavy cream, and hints of almond and cinnamon, cooked in an Instant Pot.
What kind of bread should I use for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using a 14-ounce loaf of brioche or challah bread cut into cubes for the best texture and flavor.
How many eggs are needed?
This recipe requires 6 large eggs.
What type of milk is used in this French toast bake?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of chocolate milk and 1/2 cup of heavy cream for a rich, indulgent flavor.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, this specific recipe is designed to be cooked in an Instant Pot using the pressure cook setting.
How long does it take to cook in the pressure cooker?
The French toast bake should be pressure cooked on high for 30 minutes.
Should I use a natural or quick release?
The instructions specify using a quick release once the 30-minute cooking time is complete.
What size baking dish is required?
You should use a 7-inch round baking dish that fits inside your Instant Pot.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, grease the dish with butter or cooking spray before adding the ingredients to prevent sticking.
How much water goes into the Instant Pot?
Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of the Instant Pot before placing the trivet and baking dish inside.
How long should the bread soak in the liquid mixture?
Let the bread cubes sit in the chocolate milk mixture for about 5 minutes to soak up the flavors before cooking.
What provides the almond flavor in this dish?
The flavor comes from 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract and 1/4 cup of sliced almonds sprinkled on top.
Is there cinnamon in the recipe?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon is included in the whisked liquid mixture.
What are the recommended toppings for serving?
The dish is best served with a dusting of powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh raspberries.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 400 calories.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are 10 grams of protein per serving.
Is there a lot of fat in this recipe?
Each serving contains 20 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 45 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much sugar is in the dish?
There are 12 grams of sugar per serving, excluding additional toppings like maple syrup.
Should the baking dish be covered during cooking?
Yes, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil before placing it in the Instant Pot.
How long should the casserole cool after cooking?
Let it cool for 10 minutes after removing it from the Instant Pot to allow it to set.
Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh raspberries?
While fresh raspberries are suggested for serving, you can use frozen berries if fresh ones are unavailable.
What is the purpose of the trivet?
The trivet keeps the baking dish elevated above the water to ensure the French toast bakes evenly with steam.
Can I substitute the granulated sugar?
You can use 1/4 cup of your preferred sweetener, though granulated sugar is specified for the traditional recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for a holiday brunch?
Yes, its elegant presentation and rich flavors make it a perfect centerpiece for holiday meals.
Can I use vanilla extract as well?
Yes, the recipe uses 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in addition to the almond extract.
What salt is recommended?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt to balance the sweetness.
How should I cut the bread?
The brioche or challah loaf should be cut into uniform cubes.
How do I serve the finished bake?
Once cooled for 10 minutes, slice it into wedges and serve warm with your desired toppings.