Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast offers the perfect balance of rich, creamy filling and crispy bread, making it a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. The addition of blackberry compote provides a burst of fruity sweetness that complements the smooth, tangy cream cheese filling. With a hint of vanilla and cinnamon, every bite is a delicious combination of flavors that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s easy to customize with optional toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, and maple syrup. Whether you’re serving it for a special brunch or a treat on a lazy weekend, this dish will surely impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 pieces of thick, rich bread (about 1-inch thick) – Brioche or challah recommended
- 8 ounces of whipped cream cheese
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups of skim milk (or whole milk for richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- Powdered sugar for garnish
- Optional: ¼ cup blackberry compote for stuffing
- Optional Add-ons: Fresh berries, maple syrup, chopped nuts, whipped cream
Directions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
Stir the whipped cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Optionally, mix in a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. - Assemble the French Toast
Spread a generous layer of cream cheese filling on one side of each bread slice. For added flavor, add a tablespoon of blackberry compote on top of the cream cheese before placing another slice of bread on top. - Make the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined. - Cook the Stuffed French Toast
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, letting it soak for a few seconds. Cook the sandwiches for about 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. - Prepare the Blackberry Compote
In a small saucepan, combine blackberries, lemon zest and juice, sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until it begins to boil. Add cornstarch mixed with water to thicken, then simmer until the desired consistency is reached. - Serve
Plate the stuffed French toast, drizzle with the blackberry compote, and garnish with powdered sugar and fresh berries. Serve immediately for the best taste.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 (2 pieces per serving)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Filling Variations: Experiment with other fillings like mascarpone cheese, ricotta, or even Nutella for a different flavor profile.
- Fruit Compote: While blackberry compote is the star here, feel free to swap in strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a variety of fruity options.
- Spices: Add a dash of nutmeg, ginger, or cloves to the egg mixture for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese, almond milk, and egg replacer to make this dish vegan-friendly.
- Toppings: Customize with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, whipped cream, chopped nuts, or additional fresh fruit.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover French toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the French toast in a toaster oven or skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For a crispy texture, reheat in the oven or on the stovetop rather than the microwave.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Yes! You can use any type of bread you prefer, but thick, rich breads like brioche, challah, or Texas toast are recommended for the best texture.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese filling and blackberry compote ahead of time, and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and cook the French toast the next morning.
3. How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Be sure to dip the bread into the egg mixture quickly and avoid soaking it too long. This will help maintain the crisp texture on the outside while keeping the inside creamy.
4. Can I freeze leftover stuffed French toast?
Yes, you can freeze cooked stuffed French toast. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or foil and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the toaster or oven for best results.
5. Can I use frozen blackberries for the compote?
Yes, frozen blackberries work perfectly fine for making the compote. Just make sure to thaw them slightly before cooking to avoid excess water.
6. Is there a non-dairy alternative to whipped cream cheese?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese as a substitute for the whipped cream cheese. Brands like Kite Hill or Daiya offer great options for a vegan version.
7. How do I make this recipe less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the blackberry compote or omit the powdered sugar garnish. The dish will still have great flavor!
8. Can I add other fillings to the French toast?
Yes! You can add fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas to the cream cheese filling for added flavor and texture.
9. How do I make the compote thicker?
If the compote is too thin, add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water while it’s cooking. This will help thicken the mixture without altering the taste.
10. Can I make this recipe without cinnamon?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of cinnamon, you can skip it in the egg mixture and cream cheese filling. Vanilla and the richness of the bread will still make this dish delicious.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast with Blackberry Compote is an indulgent, flavorful dish that elevates the classic French toast into something truly special. Whether you’re preparing it for a leisurely weekend brunch or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress with its perfect combination of creamy, crispy, and sweet-tart elements. With endless customization options, you can make this dish your own and enjoy it time and time again.
Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast with Blackberry Compote
Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast with Blackberry Compote is a decadent breakfast dish featuring a creamy cheese filling, crispy golden-brown bread, and a sweet-tart blackberry compote.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (2 pieces per serving)
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
8 pieces of thick, rich bread (about 1-inch thick) – Brioche or challah recommended
8 ounces of whipped cream cheese
3 large eggs, beaten
1 ½ cups of skim milk (or whole milk for richer flavor)
1 teaspoon of cinnamon
½ teaspoon of vanilla extract
4 tablespoons of butter
Powdered sugar for garnish
Optional: ¼ cup blackberry compote for stuffing
Optional Add-ons: Fresh berries, maple syrup, chopped nuts, whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: Stir the whipped cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Optionally, mix in a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Assemble the French Toast: Spread a generous layer of cream cheese filling on one side of each bread slice. For added flavor, add a tablespoon of blackberry compote on top of the cream cheese before placing another slice of bread on top.
- Make the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Cook the Stuffed French Toast: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, letting it soak for a few seconds. Cook the sandwiches for about 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- Prepare the Blackberry Compote: In a small saucepan, combine blackberries, lemon zest and juice, sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until it begins to boil. Add cornstarch mixed with water to thicken, then simmer until the desired consistency is reached.
- Serve: Plate the stuffed French toast, drizzle with the blackberry compote, and garnish with powdered sugar and fresh berries. Serve immediately for the best taste.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
For a crispy texture, reheat in the toaster or on the stovetop rather than in the microwave.
You can use frozen blackberries for the compote, but thaw them slightly before cooking.
For a vegan version, replace the cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and use almond milk and an egg replacer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (2 pieces)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 155mg