Day: August 5, 2025

Challah French Toast Instructions

### Traditional Challah French Toast with Berry Compote and Whipped Cottage Cheese

French toast is a cherished morning dish that can be effortlessly adapted to cater to different preferences. This traditional challah French toast recipe is crafted to be fail-safe, ensuring that even novice cooks can produce delectable results. With its fluffy, luxurious texture and crispy edges, this dish is enhanced by two delectable toppings: a lively berry compote and a fluffy whipped cottage cheese.

#### Ingredients

**Berry Compote:**
– 2 cups (10 ounces) assorted frozen berries
– 2 tablespoons (25 grams) granulated sugar
– Pinch of salt
– 3 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons water, divided
– 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
– 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

**Whipped Cottage Cheese:**
– 2 cups (16 ounces or 455 grams) cottage cheese, whole or low-fat
– 1 tablespoon (15 grams) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract

**French Toast:**
– 3 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups (340 grams) milk, any kind
– 1 large (1-lb) loaf of challah bread, cut into 1 to 1.5-inch thick slices
– Butter for the pan, salted or unsalted
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

#### Instructions

**1. Prepare the Berry Compote:**
– In a small saucepan, combine the mixed berries, sugar, salt, and 3 tablespoons of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries are softened and syrupy.
– In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the remaining 2 teaspoons of water. Add this mixture to the berry compote and simmer for an additional minute until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice to taste. Set aside.

**2. Make the Whipped Cottage Cheese:**
– In a food processor or high-speed blender, blend the cottage cheese, sugar, and vanilla until the mixture is smooth and airy. Adjust sweetness if necessary and set aside.

**3. Prepare the French Toast:**
– In a large bowl or baking dish, whisk together the eggs and vanilla until well combined. Gradually whisk in the milk.
– Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat for about two minutes. To test readiness, flick a droplet of water into the pan; it should dance around when ready. Add a tablespoon of butter and swirl to coat the pan.
– Dip slices of challah in the egg-milk mixture, letting them soak for a brief moment before flipping and soaking the other side. Place the soaked slices in the skillet and cook until golden on the bottom, about 2 to 3 minutes. If browning too slowly, increase the heat to medium. Flip and cook until golden on the other side. Transfer to a serving plate and repeat with the remaining slices, adding more butter as required.

**4. Serve:**
– Sprinkle the finished challah French toast with powdered sugar. Arrange two slices on a plate, add a dollop of whipped cottage cheese, and drizzle with the berry compote. Serve immediately.

#### Tips and Notes
– The berry compote can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature and can be refrigerated for 3 to 4 days.
– Whipped cottage cheese also stores well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
– French toast can be kept warm in a 200°F oven if necessary, and leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
– If challah is unavailable, brioche bread serves as an excellent alternative.
– For sweeter French toast, consider adding sugar to the egg-milk mixture, especially if using a less sweet bread.

This traditional challah French toast recipe is not only straightforward but also adaptable, allowing for a range of toppings and modifications to meet individual tastes. Indulge in a delightful breakfast that can easily compete with any brunch establishment!