Name: Brioche French Toast with Blueberry Compote & Crème Fraîche Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: French-inspired brunch
Ingredients: 1 (7.5 – to -8 ounce) container crème fraîche, at room temperature; 2-3 tablespoons powdered sugar; ½ teaspoon vanilla essence (vanilla bean paste); 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 lemon, zested & juiced; 4 large eggs; ½ cup whole milk (or milk of choice); ½ cup heavy whipping cream; ¼ cup packed brown sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla essence (vanilla bean paste); ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; 4 tablespoons butter, for frying (plus more as needed); 1 loaf brioche bread, cut into 8 (1-inch-thick) slices; Powdered sugar & maple syrup, for serving (optional)

Jump to Recipe·5 from 80 reviews

Brioche French Toast with Blueberry Compote & Crème Fraîche is the kind of delightful dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With its pillowy slices of brioche, luxurious crème fraîche, and a tangy-sweet blueberry compote, this recipe transforms an everyday breakfast into an extraordinary culinary experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Brunch Treat: Combines the classic comfort of French toast with a gourmet touch.
Rich, Velvety Texture: The brioche provides an unmatched fluffy base that absorbs flavors beautifully.
Bursting with Flavor: The blueberry compote adds a zing that complements the sweetness of the toast.

Brioche French Toast with Blueberry Compote & Crème Fraîche Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Brioche French Toast with Blueberry Compote & Crème Fraîche plays a crucial role in the symphony of flavors. From the richness of the crème fraîche to the zesty touch of lemon, each component adds a unique element.

Crème fraîche: This provides a creamy top layer that blends perfectly with the sweet and tangy compote.
Blueberries: Fresh or frozen, they bring a vibrant color and natural sweetness to the dish.
Brioche bread: Ideal for French toast due to its soft, buttery texture.
Vanilla bean paste: Enhances the flavor with an aromatic, deep vanilla scent.
Cinnamon and brown sugar: These classics add warmth and richness.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this recipe! Adapting Brioche French Toast with Blueberry Compote & Crème Fraîche is straightforward and can cater to your dietary preferences or available ingredients.

Vegan Twist: Substitute dairy with plant-based options like almond milk and coconut cream.
Nutty Delight: Sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts on top for extra texture.
Citrus Burst: Add a dash of orange zest for a refreshing zing.

How to Make Brioche French Toast with Blueberry Compote & Crème Fraîche

Step 1: Prepare the Crème Fraîche

In a medium-sized bowl, blend the crème fraîche with powdered sugar and a touch of vanilla essence. It’s optional to add more sugar to suit your taste, ensuring that all components are well mixed with no lumps. Set it aside at room temperature.

Step 2: Make the Blueberry Compote

In a saucepan, simmer the blueberries with granulated sugar, lemon zest, and juice. As the mixture cooks, the blueberries will burst, creating a delicious, slightly jammy sauce. Set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Cook the French Toast

Whisk together eggs, milk, cream, and spices to make a rich custard. Dip brioche slices into the mixture, ensuring they’re well coated. Fry the soaked slices in butter until golden brown on both sides, and keep them warm as you cook through the batch.

Pro Tips for Making Brioche French Toast with Blueberry Compote & Crème Fraîche

Perfect Soak Time: Ensure each slice is well soaked, as under-soaking might lead to uneven cooking.
Balance the Flavors: Adjust the sweetness of the compote and crème fraîche to balance with the savory elements of the dish.
Maintain Heat Carefully: Keep the skillet at a medium-low temperature to prevent burning the toast while ensuring it cooks through.

How to Serve Brioche French Toast with Blueberry Compote & Crème Fraîche

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup lend an elegant final touch, while fresh mint leaves or edible flowers can add a lovely pop of color.

Side Dishes

Pair with crispy bacon or a fresh fruit salad for a balanced breakfast spread that resonates with sweet and savory fans alike.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the slices in an intriguing tower, or lay them neatly side-by-side on a long platter to showcase the vibrant compote and creamy toppings invitingly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to three days.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the French toast slices individually, using parchment paper to separate them, preventing sticking.

Reheating

To bring back the crispy edges, reheat the French toast slices in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?

Yes, while brioche is preferred for its soft texture, challah or thick-sliced white bread can also work well in this recipe.
Is the blueberry compote necessary?

While the blueberry compote adds a lovely tang and sweetness, you can substitute with other fruit compotes or even skip it if preferred.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitute dairy milk with any plant-based milk such as almond or oat, and use coconut cream in place of crème fraîche for a delightful dairy-free version.
Can I make the crème fraîche topping sweeter?

Absolutely, just add more powdered sugar to the crème fraîche until you reach your desired sweetness level.

Final Thoughts

Why not indulge a little and try creating this Brioche French Toast with Blueberry Compote & Crème Fraîche right in your own kitchen? It’s a treat that’s sure to impress family and friends, turning ordinary mornings into gourmet delights. Give it a go and enjoy every sweet, comforting bite!