Recipe: Healthy French Toast with Apple and Orange Compote

Photo by Asia Bradlee

Now that we’re well into September, it seems as though you can’t walk two feet without seeing a nod to a certain fall flavor. Not here. We’re giving pumpkin spice a rest, and showing some love to a classic autumn combination: apple and cinnamon.

This healthy French toast recipe—yes, you read that right—makes for a nourishing breakfast that still feels indulgent. Whole grain bread, spices, and some fruit are all it takes to start your day on the right foot. Ready to rethink brunch?

Ingredients
Serves 2-3

For the French toast:

6 pieces of bread (opt for whole grain, sprouted grain, or gluten-free)
1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choosing)
2 eggs or 1/2 cup egg whites
1 Tbsp cinnamon
2 tsp vanilla

For the compote:

1 large apple, diced (we like Honeycrisp, but any variety works)
1 small orange, diced
1 Tbsp water
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1 tsp cardamom

Directions

In a sauce pan, combine the chopped fruit and water. Heat on high until boiling, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, add the nutmeg and cardamom. Continue to simmer until the fruit is soft and the juices reach a syrupy consistency.

In a bowl, combine the almond milk, eggs, cinnamon, and vanilla. Whisk the mixture well.

Heat a large pan over medium heat and coat with non-stick cooking spray.

Dunk two slices of bread in the batter, until coated on both sides. Place both pieces on the pan and cook for two to three minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining pieces of bread.

Serve the French toast hot, with a scoop of apple compote on top of each stack. If desired, add a drizzle of honey, a little maple syrup, or a scoop of applesauce for a sweet finishing touch.