Brioche bread is dipped in a blueberry kefir custard that is perfectly flavored with cinnamon and vanilla. Topped with a fresh mixed berry compote, and dollop of whipped topping–this is a delicious brunch idea.
Late spring/early summer is my favorite time of year to cook and bake with fresh berries. I just love how berries, a.k.a nature’s candy can make recipes like French toast or pancakes POP. We have some blueberry bushes in our new home and while our berry season is a little further into the summertime, our markets are overloaded with pints of berry goodness.
My love for blueberries in particular inspired me to create this Blueberry Kefir French toast. Made with Blueberry Lifeway Kefir, tender brioche bread is dipped into a rich, berry delicious custard mixture. I used my farm-fresh eggs, Lifeway Blueberry Kefir, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
Why We Love this Recipe
Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet blueberries, tangy kefir, and fluffy French toast is a flavor explosion. Kefir adds a subtle depth that complements the sweetness of the berries and the richness of the bread.
Nutritional Boost: Kefir provides a dose of probiotics and protein, making this French toast more than just a sweet treat.
Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and uses readily available ingredients.
Kid-Friendly: The sweetness of the berries and the fun presentation usually makes it a hit with kids. You can even let them help assemble the dish for some extra fun.
Making Fresh Berry Compote
Looking to put your garden-fresh berries to good use? If so, this fresh blueberry and strawberry compote is exactly what you need! This would be perfect to serve over this French Toast Casserole, Almond Milk French Toast, or this Custard Bread Pudding. It features just water, sugar, and vanilla extract simmered with freshly washed and hulled strawberries and blueberries.
To make it, simply prep your berries, and then add them to a deep-walled pan to simmer. I added mine to an enamel skillet and then sprinkled granulated sugar, water, and a little vanilla extract over them. I stirred the mixture, over medium heat, and once the berries burst, I lowered the heat and simmered them for an additional 10 minutes.
Making Kefir French Toast
In a medium bowl, add eggs, Blueberry Lifeway Kefir, vanilla extract, and cinnamon; mix to combine.
Over medium heat, add butter to a skillet and allow it to melt.
Dip brioche pieces into the custard mixture.
Place dipped pieces on the buttered skillet and cook until golden brown on each side about 2 minutes per side.
Once done, top with berry compote and a dollop of cream! Enjoy!
Kefir French Toast FAQS
What are the benefits of using kefir in French toast?
- Probiotics: Kefir is packed with probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can support gut health and digestion. You can learn more at Lifeway Kefir.
- Extra protein: Compared to milk, kefir offers a bit more protein, giving to French toast a slight nutritional boost.
- Tangy flavor: The subtle tang of kefir can add a unique flavor dimension to French toast.
Can I substitute kefir with milk?
Yes, you can substitute kefir with milk in a pinch. However, you’ll miss out on the probiotic benefits and the slight tanginess kefir brings. Opt for whole milk for a richer flavor that pairs well with the blueberries.
What kind of bread is best for blueberry kefir French toast?
- Brioche: This eggy, buttery bread soaks up the kefir custard beautifully and offers a luxurious texture.
- Challah: This slightly sweet bread with a soft crumb is another great option.
- Thick-cut French bread: A classic choice that provides a satisfying bite.
- Sourdough: If you prefer a tangier flavor, sourdough can be a good option. Just make sure it’s nice and thick-cut.
More Tasty Brunch Recipes to Try Today
- Pumpkin Pie Filling Bread
- Feta Tomato Quiche
- German Apple Pancake
- French Toast Casserole
- Custard Bread Pudding
Delicious Blueberry Kefir French Toast
Equipment
- griddle
- large bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
Berry Compote
- 16 ounces strawberries
- 1 pint blueberries
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Kefir French Toast
- 12 slices brioche bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 large eggs
- ½ cup Lifeway Blueberry Kefir
- ½ tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
Berry compote
- Add freshly washed and hulled berries to a deep-walled pan for the compote.
- Add water and sugar, mix.
- Over medium heat, allow berries to burst stirring occasionally.
- Set berries to simmer for 10 minutes over medium heat.
- Once done, allow them to cool which will thicken the sauce.
Kefir French toast
- For the French toast, add eggs, Blueberry Lifeway Kefir, vanilla extract, and cinnamon; mix to combine.
- Over medium heat, add butter to a skillet.
- Dip brioche pieces into the custard mixture.
- Place dipped pieces on the buttered skillet and cook until golden brown on each side about 2 minutes per side.
- Once done, top with berry compote and a dollop of cream!
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