Dessert

Spiced French Toast with Cranberry Compote Recipe

BySophie Carsel December 16, 2025December 16, 2025

Introduction

Spiced French Toast with Cranberry Compote is a delightful twist on a breakfast classic. The warm spices in the custard mix perfectly with the tangy, sweet cranberry topping, creating a cozy and flavorful meal that’s perfect for weekend brunch or holiday mornings.

Two slices of French toast, golden brown with a slightly crispy texture, are stacked slightly overlapping on a white speckled plate. On top, a thick layer of bright red chunky berry compote covers the center of the toast, dripping slightly down the sides. To the right of the toast on the plate lies a vintage silver fork. Nearby, a small wooden bowl filled with more berry compote has a light wooden spoon sticking out. In the background, two brown eggs rest on the white marbled surface next to a blue carton of free-range eggs. A light beige cloth is partially visible at the bottom edge of the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 Free Range Eggs
2/3 cup Milk
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves
1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
2 tablespoons Butter
6 slices Gluten-Free Bread
2 cups Frozen Cranberries
1/2 cup Brown Sugar
1/3 cup Orange Juice
1 Cinnamon Stick

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg until fully combined.
Step 2: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter. Allow it to melt completely.
Step 3: Dip each slice of gluten-free bread into the egg mixture, making sure all sides are well coated.
Step 4: Place the coated bread slices onto the hot skillet. Cook each side for 3 to 5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: While the French toast cooks, prepare the cranberry compote. Combine frozen cranberries, brown sugar, orange juice, and the cinnamon stick in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Step 6: Cook the compote, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes until it thickens and most of the liquid evaporates. Remove and discard the cinnamon stick.
Step 7: Serve the French toast on plates and spoon the warm cranberry compote over the top.
Step 8: Enjoy your spiced French toast with cranberry compote immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

Use day-old bread for better soaking and less sogginess when dipped in the custard mixture.
Try adding a splash of orange zest to the custard for extra citrus aroma.
Swap frozen cranberries for fresh ones when in season for a brighter flavor.
For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.

Storage

Store any leftover French toast separately from the compote in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the French toast in a toaster or oven for best texture, and warm the compote gently on the stove or microwave before serving.

How to Serve

Two slices of golden brown French toast lie on a white speckled plate, stacked slightly overlapping. On top of them, there is a thick layer of chunky, dark red berry compote with whole pieces of fruit, glistening with syrup. A silver fork rests on the right side of the plate. To the left of the plate, there is a small wooden bowl filled with more of the same berry compote, with a small wooden spoon inside it. Above the plate are two light brown eggs. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface, with a blue carton of free-range eggs partially visible in the upper right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular bread instead of gluten-free bread?

Yes, you can use any bread you prefer. Thick-sliced bread like brioche or challah works especially well for French toast.

How do I prevent the French toast from becoming soggy?

Make sure to soak the bread briefly—not too long—in the egg mixture. Cooking on medium-high heat helps create a firm crust that keeps the toast from becoming soggy.