Easy French Toast Sticks with Berry Compote Recipe

Looking for a breakfast or brunch treat that’s both delicious and fun to eat? These Easy French Toast Sticks with Berry Compote are the answer! A twist on the classic French toast, these sticks are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for dipping. Paired with a vibrant, sweet berry compote, they’re an indulgent yet simple way to start your morning or serve up a crowd-pleasing brunch dish.

The best part? You can make these French toast sticks with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The berry compote, made with fresh or frozen berries, adds a burst of tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the rich, eggy French toast. These sticks are perfect for dipping in syrup, whipped cream, or even yogurt, making them a versatile treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting a brunch gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Kid-Friendly and Fun

French toast sticks are an easy and fun way for kids to enjoy breakfast. They’re the perfect size for little hands to dip into syrup or berry compote, making breakfast even more enjoyable.

2. Customizable Dipping Sauces

Pair these French toast sticks with a variety of dipping sauces, from syrup and whipped cream to honey or Nutella, allowing everyone to customize their flavor experience.

3. Quick and Easy to Make

With minimal prep time and a few simple ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly. It’s perfect for busy mornings or when you want a delicious brunch without spending hours in the kitchen.

4. Fresh and Sweet Berry Compote

The berry compote adds a fresh and fruity touch that perfectly complements the rich, custardy flavor of the French toast sticks. You can use fresh or frozen berries depending on what you have available.

5. Perfect for Brunch or Breakfast

These French toast sticks are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even as a fun dessert. They’re great for sharing and perfect for serving a crowd.

Ingredients

• Bread (thick slices, such as brioche or challah)
• Eggs
• Milk
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon
• Sugar
• Butter (for frying)
• Fresh or frozen mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
• Lemon juice
• Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Maple syrup (optional, for serving)
• Whipped cream (optional, for serving)

Variations

• Nutty French Toast Sticks: Add chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, to the French toast batter for added crunch and flavor.
• Vegan Version: Make this recipe vegan by using plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk), vegan butter, and egg replacer.
• Chocolate Chip French Toast Sticks: Add mini chocolate chips to the bread before dipping them in the egg mixture for a decadent, sweet twist.
• Fruit Compote Variations: Switch out the mixed berries for other fruits like peaches, cherries, or apples for a different flavor profile.
• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: After frying the French toast sticks, roll them in cinnamon sugar for an extra sweet and crispy crust.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Berry Compote

In a medium saucepan, combine your mixed berries, a tablespoon of lemon juice, and a tablespoon of sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and the sauce thickens, about 8-10 minutes. If you prefer a thicker compote, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the berry mixture. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the French Toast Batter

In a shallow bowl or dish, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until well combined.

Step 3: Cut the Bread into Sticks

Slice your bread into thick strips, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. Thick-cut bread like brioche or challah works best for this recipe, as it holds up well when dipped and cooked.

Step 4: Dip the Bread in the Batter

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a small amount of butter. Dip each bread strip into the egg mixture, making sure both sides are coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before placing the bread in the skillet.

Step 5: Cook the French Toast Sticks

Fry the French toast sticks in the skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Continue in batches, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked, remove the French toast sticks from the skillet and place them on a serving platter. Serve with the berry compote on the side for dipping. Add maple syrup, whipped cream, or other toppings if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Stale Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better and results in a more custardy texture. If your bread is fresh, toast it lightly before dipping to help it soak up the batter.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the French toast sticks in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the sticks to steam instead of crisp up.
• Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar in the French toast batter and the berry compote to your taste. You can make it sweeter or more tart depending on your preference.
• Make it Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk) and a non-dairy butter alternative.

How to Serve

Serve these French toast sticks with the warm berry compote on the side for dipping. You can also add a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra sweetness. Pair them with fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a side of bacon for a complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover French toast sticks, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until crispy again.

Freezing

To freeze the French toast sticks, let them cool completely before placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the French toast sticks in the oven or toaster oven to maintain their crispiness. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may not stay as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular bread for this recipe?

Yes, regular bread can be used, but thick-cut bread like brioche or challah will give you a better texture and flavor.

2. How do I make the berry compote thicker?

If the compote is too runny, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the berries while they’re cooking. This will help thicken the sauce.

3. Can I make the berry compote ahead of time?

Yes, the compote can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it before serving.

4. Can I make these French toast sticks without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a mixture of mashed banana or flaxseed meal combined with water for a vegan-friendly version.

5. Can I use frozen berries for the compote?

Yes, frozen berries work great for the compote. Just make sure to thaw them and cook them down to your desired consistency.

6. How can I make these French toast sticks gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread and check that your milk and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

7. Can I add spices to the batter?

Absolutely! You can add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for a deeper, spiced flavor.

8. How can I keep the French toast sticks warm while cooking in batches?

You can keep the French toast sticks warm by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet in a low-temperature oven (around 200°F or 90°C).

9. How do I make these French toast sticks crispier?

For crispier French toast sticks, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the bread and don’t overcrowd the pan. Also, use enough butter to coat the pan evenly.

10. Can I freeze the berry compote?

Yes, you can freeze the berry compote for up to 3 months. Reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Easy French Toast Sticks with Berry Compote are a delightful and fun way to enjoy a classic breakfast with a twist. The golden, crispy French toast sticks are perfectly complemented by the sweet and tangy berry compote, making them a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting a brunch gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a perfect way to start your day!

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