Print

Fluffy Brioche French Toast Recipe with Easy Berry Compote

fluffy brioche french toast - featured image

A cozy and indulgent French toast made with thick brioche slices soaked in a rich custard and topped with a quick, fresh berry compote. Perfect for brunch or a comforting weekend breakfast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 thick slices brioche bread (about 1-inch thick), day-old or slightly stale
  • 4 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 cup whole milk (240 ml)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (120 ml), optional but recommended
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for custard)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)
  • For the Berry Compote:
  • 2 cups mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries), fresh or frozen
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup whole milk, and ½ cup heavy cream until smooth.
  2. Stir in 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
  3. Dip each brioche slice into the custard mixture, soaking about 20 seconds per side until soft but not soggy. Place soaked slices on a plate.
  4. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups mixed berries, 3 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest (if using), and 2 tablespoons water.
  5. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until berries burst and mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  6. Heat 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a nonstick skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat.
  7. Cook 2-3 soaked brioche slices at a time for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp outside but tender inside. Adjust heat as needed.
  8. Transfer cooked slices to a cooling rack or warm plate and repeat with remaining slices, adding more butter as needed.
  9. Serve French toast warm topped generously with the berry compote. Optional: dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup.

Notes

Do not soak the brioche too long to avoid sogginess; about 20 seconds per side is ideal. Use medium heat to cook the toast evenly without burning. Keep cooked slices warm in a low oven (200°F) if making a large batch. The berry compote can be made ahead and reheated gently. For gluten-free or dairy-free options, substitute bread and dairy accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast, brioche, berry compote, brunch recipe, easy breakfast, fluffy French toast, berry sauce