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Fluffy Star-Shaped French Toast with Berry Compote

fluffy star-shaped french toast - featured image
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A whimsical and fluffy French toast recipe shaped like stars, served with a sweet-tart homemade berry compote. Perfect for a special breakfast or brunch treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices thick-sliced brioche or challah bread (day-old preferred)
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or cream
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for frying
  • 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen; blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
  • Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the berry compote: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine mixed berries, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest if using. Stir occasionally and simmer for 8-10 minutes until berries break down and mixture thickens.
  2. Thicken the compote: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1-2 minutes until glossy and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Whisk the egg mixture: In a bowl, beat eggs, milk or cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and frothy.
  4. Cut the bread: Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut stars from each bread slice. Save scraps for another use.
  5. Soak the bread: Dip each star-shaped bread piece into the egg mixture, soaking about 20 seconds per side without falling apart.
  6. Heat the skillet: Melt about 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet or griddle over medium heat, swirling to coat.
  7. Cook the French toast: Place soaked bread stars on the skillet and cook 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp on edges. Add more butter between batches as needed.
  8. Serve: Arrange French toast on plates, spoon warm berry compote on top or on the side. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup if desired.

Notes

Use day-old bread for best soaking and texture. Control heat to avoid burning edges. Butter helps create a crisp crust. The berry compote can be made ahead and reheated. For gluten-free, use sturdy gluten-free bread. For dairy-free, substitute milk with almond or oat milk. Baking variation: bake soaked stars at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast, star-shaped, berry compote, breakfast, brunch, fluffy, easy recipe, sweet breakfast

Find it online: https://lumalunch.com/fluffy-star-shaped-french-toast-with-berry-compote-easy-recipe-for-breakfast-bliss/