As the new school year is underway I would like to share an easy fix for breakfast with a little twist that is perfect for your kids. I take my niece whom is a berry fanatic to the market with me on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Her eyes get a big as saucers when she sees the fresh blackberries, blue berries and strawberries. She sweetly asks for a pint while batting her eyelashes and I give in every week! Sometimes she can’t finish them all and goes home with quite a few. This is a great opportunity to teach your kids early not to let food go to waste while allowing them to be creative.

If the fruit from your local farmer starts getting a little dark before you can eat them, make compote and your kids will love it. Less sugar than jam or jelly.

French Toast with Fruit Compote

Compote:

• 2 C. berries
• 3/4 C. honey, agave nectar
• 1tsp lemon juice

1. Clean the berries.
2. Add the honey and lemon juice with the berries in a medium sauce pot.
3. Heat on low and let simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Smash the berries a little and simmer for 10 more minutes.
5. Remove from heat.

French Toast

• 1 loaf of brioche bread sliced, or any favorite Bread
• 6 eggs
• ½ C. milk
• 1T. fresh squeezed orange juice
• 1/2t. cinnamon
• 2T-4T. butter

1. Whisk together the eggs, milk, orange juice and cinnamon.
2. Dip the slices of bread in the egg mixture.
3. Heat a large sauté pan on medium heat.
4. Add the butter and heat.
5. Add the dipped bread to the hot pan and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Flip on the other side and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve warm with the fresh berry compote.

*Image not Chef Renee’s creation, from Eat, Sleep, Cupcake.