Cherry Almond Protein French Toast

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love sweet breakfasts that taste like a restaurant-style brunch but still keep you full, then you need to try this cherry almond protein French toast. It has the perfect balance of tart, creamy, and nutty flavors while packing an impressive amount of protein into every serving. Here are some top reasons you should make it.

• Protein-Packed Breakfast: With 37 grams of protein per serving, this high protein French toast is a delicious way to fuel your morning. It tastes like an indulgent brunch while still being filling and satisfying.
• Golden Almond Crunch: Sliced almonds are pressed directly onto both sides of the bread before cooking. They become golden and toasted in the pan, giving this almond French toast an irresistible crunchy coating.
• Warm Cherry Filling: The quick cherry compote adds the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavor. It turns a classic protein French toast into a fruity cherry French toast that feels extra special.
• Creamy Vanilla Yogurt: Fluffy vanilla bean Greek yogurt adds a cool and creamy layer between the warm slices of French toast. It also adds even more protein while giving the breakfast an almost cheesecake-like flavor.
• Every Texture in One Bite: You get crispy almonds, soft custardy bread, juicy cherries, and creamy yogurt all at once. Every layer brings something different, making each bite even better than the last.
• Easy Brunch at Home: This cherry almond protein French toast looks impressive, but every component is quick and simple to prepare. You can enjoy a beautiful café-style breakfast without complicated steps or a long list of dishes.

Whether you make it for a slow weekend morning or simply want to upgrade your everyday breakfast, this recipe delivers. It is sweet enough to feel like a treat but filling enough to keep you satisfied throughout the morning. Once you try that combination of warm cherries and toasted almonds, regular French toast might never feel quite the same!

Key Ingredients for this Cherry Almond Protein French Toast

This cherry almond protein French toast uses simple ingredients to create layers of nutty, fruity, and creamy flavor. Each component plays a role in turning classic protein French toast into a breakfast that feels a little extra special.

• Large Egg: The egg creates the base of the French toast mixture, helping the bread develop a golden exterior while keeping the center tender.
• Organic Nonfat Milk: A small amount of milk thins the egg mixture so it coats and absorbs into the bread more evenly.
• Vanilla Extract: Vanilla adds warmth and sweetness to the French toast coating without requiring additional sugar.
• Almond Extract: This concentrated extract gives both the French toast and yogurt topping that unmistakable almond flavor. A little goes a long way!
• Protein Soft White Bread: Protein bread provides a thick and sturdy base while adding extra protein to this high protein French toast.
• Sliced Almonds: Pressing sliced almonds onto the bread creates a lightly toasted, crunchy coating. They also make the perfect finishing touch for the assembled almond French toast.
• Dark Sweet Cherries: Sweet cherries cook down into a warm, juicy filling that gives this cherry French toast its fruity flavor and beautiful color.
• Tapioca Flour: Tapioca flour thickens the cherry juices, transforming the fruit into a spoonable compote rather than a watery topping.
• 0% Milkfat Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt creates a thick and creamy whipped topping while giving the recipe another boost of protein.
• Vanilla Bean Paste: Vanilla bean paste gives the yogurt topping a richer vanilla flavor along with those pretty little vanilla bean specks.
• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar gives the finished cherry almond protein French toast a bakery-style look and a touch of extra sweetness.

Substitution Options

This cherry almond protein French toast is easy to adjust based on what you already have available. You can swap several ingredients without losing the combination of toasted almonds, creamy yogurt, and warm fruit. Just keep in mind that different breads and dairy products may slightly change the final texture.

• Protein Soft White Bread: Use another thick-cut protein bread, brioche, challah, sourdough, or your favorite gluten-free bread. A sturdy bread works best because it can hold the egg mixture and almond coating without falling apart.
• Organic Nonfat Milk: Any dairy or nondairy milk can be used, including almond, oat, soy, or cashew milk. Unsweetened milk will keep the sweetness level closest to the original recipe.
• Dark Sweet Cherries: Frozen or fresh cherries both work well for the cherry filling. You can also substitute blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, or a mixed berry blend for a different fruit variation.
• Tapioca Flour: Cornstarch or arrowroot starch can be used to thicken the cherry mixture. Begin with a small amount since each thickener may work slightly differently.
• 0% Milkfat Greek Yogurt: Replace it with low-fat or full-fat Greek yogurt for a richer topping. A thick dairy-free yogurt can also be used, although the protein content may be lower.
• Vanilla Bean Paste: Vanilla extract can be used in the yogurt topping when vanilla bean paste is unavailable. The flavor will still be delicious, but you will miss those visible vanilla bean specks.
• Almond Extract: You can reduce or omit the almond extract for a softer almond flavor. Adding a little extra vanilla is a simple way to keep the protein French toast flavorful.
• Sliced Almonds: Chopped almonds or slivered almonds can work, but thinner slices will adhere to the bread more easily. For a nut-free version, skip the coating and cook the French toast without it.

Feel free to use these swaps to create a version that works for your dietary preferences and pantry. You can even change the fruit with the seasons while keeping the same creamy high protein French toast base. No matter which variation you choose, keep the warm fruit and yogurt layers for the best balance of flavors and textures.

**If there is a sub I haven’t mentioned above, it’s because I have not tested it and can’t speak for how well it would work for this recipe.

Equipment and Tools

No complicated equipment is needed to prepare this protein French toast. Most of the recipe comes together with a few bowls, a skillet, and your microwave. Having everything nearby will also make it easy to prepare the cherry filling and yogurt topping while the French toast cooks.

• Measuring Scale: A kitchen scale provides accurate ingredient measurements and makes it easy to track the portions used in this high protein French toast.
• Measuring Spoons: These are needed for accurately measuring the vanilla extract, almond extract, and vanilla bean paste.
• Wide Shallow Bowl: Use this to whisk together the egg mixture and easily coat both sides of the bread.
• Wide Shallow Dish: A second shallow dish provides enough space to scatter the sliced almonds and press them onto the bread.
• Whisk: A small whisk helps fully combine the French toast mixture and creates a smooth, creamy yogurt topping.
• Nonstick Skillet: A nonstick skillet allows the almond French toast to cook evenly while helping prevent the almond coating from sticking.
• Spatula: Use a wide spatula to carefully flip the bread without knocking off too many almond slices.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl: A small microwave-safe bowl is ideal for cooking and thickening the cherry filling.
• Microwave: The microwave quickly softens the cherries and creates a warm filling without needing another pan.
• Fork or Small Masher: Use this to lightly mash the warmed cherries and create a thicker, more textured compote.
• Small Mixing Bowl: This is perfect for combining the Greek yogurt, vanilla bean paste, and almond extract.

These basic tools help each component come together quickly and keep cleanup fairly minimal. Once everything is prepared, all that is left to do is layer your cherry French toast and dig in!

How to Make Your Cherry Almond Protein French Toast

This cherry almond protein French toast comes together quickly, but every layer adds something special. You get golden French toast coated in toasted almonds, a warm cherry filling, and a creamy vanilla bean yogurt topping. Everything can be prepared while the French toast cooks, making it an easy high protein breakfast for busy mornings or a slower weekend brunch.

Prepare the French Toast Mixture

Add the egg, milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract to a wide, shallow bowl. Whisk everything together until the egg is fully broken up and the mixture is smooth.

Dip each slice of protein bread into the egg mixture, coating both sides. Allow any excess mixture to drip back into the bowl before adding the almond coating.

Add the Almond Coating

Scatter the sliced almonds evenly across a separate wide, shallow dish. Place each coated bread slice into the almonds and gently press both sides down so some of the almond slices adhere to the surface.

The almonds do not need to cover every inch of the bread. A scattered coating will give the almond French toast plenty of crunch without making it difficult to cook.

Cook the French Toast

Lightly coat a nonstick pan with olive oil spray and heat it over low-medium heat. Add the bread and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the exterior is golden and the center is cooked through.

Keep the temperature fairly low so the sliced almonds have time to toast without burning. Transfer the finished French toast to a plate while you prepare the remaining components.

Make the Cherry Filling

Mix all the ingredients together in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir and lightly mash the cherries to release more of their juices.

Continue microwaving in 15–20 second intervals until the cherries have softened and the liquid has thickened into a compote-like consistency. Set the filling aside to cool slightly before assembling the cherry French toast.

Prepare the Vanilla Greek Yogurt Whip

Mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl until the yogurt is smooth and creamy. Whisking it well helps give the topping a slightly lighter, whipped consistency.

Assemble

Place one slice of French toast onto a plate and top it with some of the vanilla Greek yogurt whip and warm cherry filling. Add the second slice, then finish with the remaining yogurt, cherries, sliced almonds, and a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Serve the cherry almond protein French toast immediately while the bread is warm and the almond coating is still crisp. The contrast between the crunchy toast, creamy yogurt, and juicy cherries makes every bite so satisfying!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips and tricks to make your cherry almond protein French toast turn out golden, crisp, and delicious every time. A few small adjustments can make a big difference when working with the almond coating and layered toppings.

• Use Sturdy Bread: Choose a thicker protein bread that can absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soft or tearing. This will help your high protein French toast hold up beneath the yogurt and cherry filling.
• Avoid Oversoaking the Bread: Coat both sides of the bread, but do not leave it sitting in the egg mixture for too long. Protein bread can soften quickly, so a brief dip is usually all it needs.
• Spread the Almonds Evenly: Scatter the sliced almonds in a single, even layer before pressing the bread into them. This gives the almond French toast a more consistent coating and prevents large clumps from sticking to one area.
• Press the Almonds Gently: Lightly press both sides of the coated bread into the almonds rather than pushing down too firmly. You want enough slices to stick without crushing the bread or knocking off too much egg mixture.
• Keep the Heat Low-Medium: Almonds can go from toasted to burnt quickly. Cooking the French toast over a slightly lower temperature gives the center time to cook while the outside becomes golden and crisp.
• Watch Closely When Flipping: Use a wide spatula and carefully slide it beneath the bread to keep the almond coating intact. A gentle flip will prevent too many slices from falling into the pan.
• Adjust the Cherry Filling as Needed: If the filling looks too thick, stir in another tiny splash of water. If it is still runny, microwave it for another 15–20 seconds until it reaches a thick, jammy consistency.
• Let the Cherries Cool Slightly: Allow the cherry filling to sit for a minute before layering it with the yogurt. This helps prevent the warm cherries from making the vanilla Greek yogurt whip too loose.
• Assemble Right Before Serving: Layer the cherry French toast just before eating so the bread and sliced almonds remain crisp. Preparing it too far in advance may cause the yogurt and cherry filling to soften the toast.

With these tips, you will get the best combination of crisp almonds, creamy yogurt, and warm cherries in every bite. Serve it right away for the most satisfying texture!

Storage Instructions

This cherry almond protein French toast is best enjoyed immediately while the bread is warm and the almond coating is crisp. However, the individual components can still be stored if you have leftovers or want to prepare part of the recipe ahead of time. Keeping everything separate will help preserve the different textures.

• Refrigerate the French Toast: Allow leftover French toast to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
• Store the Components Separately: Keep the cooked French toast, cherry filling, and vanilla Greek yogurt whip in separate airtight containers. This prevents the toppings from soaking into the bread and making it soggy.
• Refrigerate the Cherry Filling: The cherry filling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Stir it before serving, as it may thicken further once chilled.
• Refrigerate the Yogurt Whip: Store the vanilla Greek yogurt whip in a covered container for up to 2–3 days. Give it a quick stir before adding it to your protein French toast.
• Reheat the French Toast Carefully: Reheat the bread in a skillet over low heat, a toaster oven, or an air fryer until warmed through. These methods will revive more of the almond coating’s texture than the microwave.
• Avoid Microwaving the Assembled Toast: Microwaving everything together can warm the yogurt and make the bread soft. Reheat only the French toast, then add the chilled yogurt and warmed cherry filling afterward.
• Freezing Is Not Ideal: Although the plain French toast could technically be frozen, the sliced almond coating may lose some of its crisp texture. The yogurt topping should not be frozen because it may separate once thawed.

For the best results, assemble your high protein French toast only when you are ready to eat it. Adding the creamy yogurt, cherry filling, almonds, and powdered sugar at the end keeps every layer tasting fresh. Even with leftovers, storing everything separately will help the recipe remain as delicious as possible.

More Cherry Recipes

I clearly love adding warm, jammy cherries to breakfast recipes, especially when they are paired with something fluffy, creamy, or golden. Here are a few more cherry-filled breakfasts from my blog that deliver those same cozy flavors.

• Cherry and Brie French Toast Roll Ups⁠
• Cherry Compote Waffle Sandwich⁠
• Cherry Pie Hotcakes⁠

FAQs

This cherry almond protein French toast is simple to make, but a few common questions may come up when preparing it. From preventing burnt almonds to adjusting the cherry filling, these answers will help you get the best results. You can also easily adapt the recipe based on the ingredients you already have.

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