Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Cooking · Storage: Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Quick Answer
Make delicious Cinnamon French Toast by soaking thick slices of brioche in a spiced egg mixture, cooking them until golden, and serving with fresh mixed berries and maple syrup.As the crisp autumn air envelops New York City and the days grow shorter, my thoughts turn warmly towards cozy breakfasts, especially with Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner. There's something absolutely magical about the aroma of cinnamon wafting through my kitchen, reminiscent of holiday gatherings and family traditions. Today, I'm excited to share my take on a classic: Cinnamon French Toast with Mixed Berries. This dish is not only a joy to prepare but also a delightful canvas to showcase seasonal fruits.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously combines the warm flavors of cinnamon with fresh, seasonal mixed berries for a perfectly balanced breakfast.
- Easy to prepare, making it a delightful weekend treat or a special dish for holiday gatherings.
- Versatile recipe allows for customization with various toppings and alternative ingredients, catering to different dietary preferences.
- Quick cooking time ensures you can enjoy a festive breakfast even on busy mornings.
- Creates a cozy atmosphere in your kitchen, filling your home with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon.
Ingredients
This delightful dish combines rich flavors and seasonal fruits for a perfect breakfast treat.
Bread and Dairy
- 4 thick slices of brioche or challah bread
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
Flavorings
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, depending on your taste)
- A pinch of salt
Toppings
- Fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Butter for frying
- Maple syrup for serving
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
How to Make Cinnamon French Toast with Mixed Berries (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps for a warm and flavorful breakfast that is sure to please.
Step 1: Whisk the Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, sugar, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is well-combined and slightly frothy. I love how the warm spices instantly make the kitchen feel festive.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Lay the slices of brioche or challah in a shallow dish or a large plate. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, allowing it to soak for a few minutes on each side. This is crucial; you want the bread to absorb the flavors without being overly soggy.
Step 3: Cook the French Toast
Heat a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the soaked bread slices. Cook until they are beautifully golden brown on one side (about 3-4 minutes), then flip and repeat. The nutty aroma of the butter browning and the spices heating fills the air, and I often sneak a taste just to get that perfect bite of perfection.
Step 4: Serve with Berries
Meanwhile, gently wash the mixed berries and set aside. Once the French toast is cooked to perfection, plate them up while they're still warm. Pile the fresh berries on top, drizzle with maple syrup, and dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-soaking the Bread: Leaving the bread in the egg mixture for too long can lead to mushy French toast. Just a few minutes on each side is perfect.
- Using the Wrong Bread: Opt for thick, slightly stale bread like brioche or challah for the best texture and flavor. Avoid regular sandwich bread, which can get soggy too easily.
- Cooking on High Heat: Cooking too quickly on high heat can burn the outside before the center cooks through. Stick to medium heat for even cooking.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For added flavor, consider sprinkling a bit of nutmeg or allspice in with the cinnamon mixture.
- You can substitute almond milk for a dairy-free version while still achieving a lovely richness.
- Feel free to experiment with different toppings like whipped cream or a dollop of yogurt, especially if you're entertaining during the holidays.
Variations
- Use different types of bread such as sourdough or French bread for unique flavors.
- Top with caramelized bananas or sautéed apples instead of mixed berries.
- Substitute coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Add a touch of orange zest to the egg mixture for a refreshing citrus note.
How to Serve
- Plate the French toast while still warm and pile fresh mixed berries on top.
- Drizzle with maple syrup and dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
- Serve with a side of whipped cream or yogurt for added creaminess.
- Pair with crispy bacon or sausage for a hearty brunch option.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the egg mixture and store it in the fridge for a day ahead.
- Storage: Leftover French toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the toaster or microwave briefly until warmed through.
- Freezing: To freeze, layer parchment paper between the slices and store in a freezer-safe container. Reheat directly from the freezer in the toaster.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
One of my biggest takeaways from making this Cinnamon French Toast is how versatile it can be. You can easily switch up the toppings based on what's in season or even your pantry staples. This recipe also reminded me that sometimes, the simplest dishes resonate most, especially during this joyous holiday season. Enjoying a slice of nostalgia with the warmth of cinnamon and fresh berries is the perfect way to start the day!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 slice
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~250 calories · 6g protein · 30g carbs · 12g fat
Recipe by:
Delicious Cinnamon French Toast with Mixed Berries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, sugar, and a pinch of salt until well-combined.
- Lay the slices of brioche or challah in a shallow dish. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, soaking for a few minutes on each side.
- Heat a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat, add soaked bread slices, and cook until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
- Plate the French toast warm, pile fresh berries on top, drizzle with maple syrup, and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Yes, while brioche and challah are recommended for their texture and flavor, you can use other types of bread. Just make sure they are thick and slightly stale to prevent sogginess.
2. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute whole milk with almond milk or any other dairy-free milk of your choice. This will still yield a delicious result while accommodating dietary restrictions.
3. What can I do with leftover French toast?
Leftover French toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the slices with parchment paper in between. Reheat them in a toaster or microwave when ready to eat.
4. Can I add more spices to the egg mixture?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon to enhance the flavor profile of your French toast.
5. Why is my French toast coming out soggy?
This may happen if you over-soak the bread in the egg mixture. Make sure to only soak the slices for a few minutes on each side to achieve the ideal texture without excess moisture.
