(Almost) Decadent Cinnamon Raisin French Toast

by Laura Donnelly — March 21, 2007

Our third spa recipe is for a breakfast that tastes extremely rich but is made with low-fat cream cheese, buttermilk (which is naturally low in fat, despite its name), and dried fruits. For a simpler recipe, just make the French toast without the filling. Or if you're feeling a bit lazy, top each French toast slice with the cream-cheese mixture after sautéeing, letting the cream cheese melt into the top. This is also delicious with blueberries on top.

Serves 8

French Toast

8 slices cinnamon raisin bread
4 large egg whites
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ginger
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 Tablespoons maple syrup
Pinch salt

Filling

1 cup low fat-cream cheese, softened
3 Tablespoons your choice of dried fruit, chopped. I like cherries or cranberries and apricots

1. Combine filling ingredients by stirring vigorously.

2. Spread 2 Tablespoons of filling on one slice of bread, top with another slice of bread, press together firmly.

3. In large shallow bowl, combine egg whites, buttermilk, spices, syrup, extract, and salt. Dip the sandwiches into batter.

4. Heat a griddle or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Spray with cooking spray.

5. Sauté sandwiches on each side until nicely browned, about 3 to 5 minutes. Slice into quarters and serve with more maple syrup and fresh fruit.