Cream Cheese Stuffed Blackberry Compote French Toast

Introduction

There’s something truly magical about starting your day with a plate of beautifully crafted French toast, especially when it’s stuffed with creamy goodness and topped with a luscious homemade blackberry compote. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite in our home. The kids love the sweet, fruity burst of the compote, while my partner and I enjoy the rich texture of the cream cheese. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed French Toast:

• 8 slices thick, rich bread (brioche or challah)
• 8 ounces whipped cream cheese
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 1 ½ cups skim milk
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 tablespoons butter
• Powdered sugar, for garnish
• Optional: ¼ cup blackberry compote, for stuffing

For the Blackberry Compote:

• 12 ounces blackberries
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup white sugar
• ¼ cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

Make the Blackberry Compote:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the blackberries, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, sugar, and water.
2. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to boil.
3. Add cornstarch and stir until boiling again. This helps thicken the compote.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until the compote thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and set aside.

Make the Stuffed French Toast:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, skim milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Spread whipped cream cheese on one side of each slice of bread.
3. If desired, spread 1 tablespoon of blackberry compote on top of the cream cheese for an extra fruity punch.
4. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Dip each sandwich, one at a time, into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s well coated.
6. Place 2 sandwiches at a time in the hot pan, cooking for about 2 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown.
7. Repeat with the remaining sandwiches, adding more butter to the pan as needed.

Serve:

Serve immediately, drizzled with warm blackberry compote and sprinkled with powdered sugar.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 145mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 53g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 12g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• Plating:
• Arrange the stuffed French toast slices on a plate.
• Drizzle warm blackberry compote over the top.
• Dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
• Accompaniments:
• Serve with a side of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or bananas.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Additional Tips

1. Bread Choice: Use day-old brioche or challah for the best texture and flavor. The sturdiness of the bread helps prevent sogginess.
2. Compote Variations: Feel free to experiment with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for different flavor profiles.
3. Make Ahead: Prepare the blackberry compote a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator for quick assembly in the morning.
4. Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use almond or oat milk.
5. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture for added warmth and depth of flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Nutty Addition: Add crushed nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the cream cheese for a delightful crunch.
• Chocolate Twist: Mix in some mini chocolate chips with the cream cheese for a decadent twist.
• Savory Version: Substitute the blackberry compote for sautéed spinach and feta for a savory stuffed French toast.

Serving Suggestions

• Brunch Buffet: Serve as part of a brunch spread alongside other favorites like scrambled eggs and pastries.
• Special Occasions: Perfect for birthdays or holiday breakfasts, making the morning feel extra special.
• Picnic Treat: Pack slices for a picnic; they taste great cold and can be enjoyed on the go.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked French toast for up to 2 months. Place slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the toaster or a skillet.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use different types of bread?

• Yes, you can use any thick bread you prefer, such as sourdough or Texas toast.

1. What if I don’t have blackberries?

• You can use any berry or even a mix of berries for the compote.

1. Can I make the compote without sugar?

• Yes, you can substitute sugar with a sugar alternative like honey or agave nectar.

1. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

• Yes, it is vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure the bread is also vegetarian.

1. Can I make this gluten-free?

• Absolutely! Use gluten-free bread and ensure your taco seasoning is gluten-free.

1. How do I know when the French toast is done?

• Look for a golden-brown color and a firm texture. It should not be soggy.

1. Can I prepare the French toast batter in advance?

• Yes, you can prepare the egg mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator.

1. How can I thicken my compote if it’s too runny?

• If your compote is too runny, cook it a bit longer on low heat to help it thicken, or add a bit more cornstarch.

1. Can I use cream cheese without whipping it first?

• Yes, you can use regular cream cheese, but whipping it will give it a smoother texture for spreading.

1. What can I substitute for powdered sugar?
   • You can use granulated sugar, but it won’t have the same fine texture and sweetness as powdered sugar.

Conclusion

This Cream Cheese Stuffed Blackberry Compote French Toast is an indulgent yet simple dish that will elevate any breakfast or brunch. With its creamy filling and the sweet-tart punch of blackberry compote, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or just treating yourself, each bite promises to be a delightful experience. So go ahead, whip up this delicious recipe and enjoy the sweet moments!

Print