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There’s something magical about waking up to the aroma of freshly baked French toast, especially when it’s infused with the sweetness of strawberries and the richness of cream cheese. This Strawberries and Cream French Toast is not just a breakfast dish—it’s a luxurious treat that turns an ordinary morning into a celebration. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply indulging in a weekend treat, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Key Ingredients
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the harmony of its ingredients. Brioche bread provides a buttery, tender base, while cream cheese adds a velvety texture that melts beautifully into every bite. Fresh strawberries bring a burst of natural sweetness, complemented by the warm, comforting flavors of vanilla and maple syrup. The combination of these elements creates a French toast that’s creamy, fruity, and utterly irresistible.
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this decadent dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brioche bread, cubed | 1 (16-ounce) loaf |
| Cream cheese, cubed | 1 (8-ounce) package |
| Strawberries, diced and divided | 1 pound |
| Large eggs, beaten | 12 |
| Whole milk | 2 cups |
| Maple syrup | â…“ cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Kosher salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Confectioners’ sugar | 1 tablespoon |
Helpful Tools
Having the right tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are three essentials:
1. 9×13 Baking Dish: A sturdy, nonstick dish ensures even baking and easy release.
2. Whisk: Essential for blending the eggs, milk, and other liquids smoothly.
3. Sharp Knife: For neatly cubing the bread and dicing the strawberries.
Pro-Tips for the Perfect French Toast
1. Use Stale Bread: If your brioche is too fresh, lightly toast the cubes to prevent them from becoming soggy.
2. Layer Evenly: Distribute the cream cheese and strawberries uniformly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
3. Rest Overnight: For the best texture, let the dish soak in the fridge overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the custard fully.
4. Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed fresh from the oven. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven to maintain the crispy edges.
5. Pair with a Sweet Treat: For an extra-special brunch, serve this French toast alongside Chocolate Covered Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes for a double dose of strawberry delight.
How to Make Strawberries and Cream French Toast
Follow these simple steps to create a breakfast masterpiece:
- 1. Prep the Dish: Lightly coat a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray.
- 2. Layer the Bread: Place half of the cubed brioche bread evenly in the dish.
- 3. Add Filling: Top the bread with cubed cream cheese and half of the diced strawberries.
- 4. Top with Bread: Add the remaining bread cubes to completely cover the filling.
- 5. Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt.
- 6. Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- 7. Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the dish sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- 8. Bake Covered: Bake covered for 30 minutes.
- 9. Bake Uncovered: Remove the cover and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the center is firm.
- 10. Serve: Sprinkle with the remaining strawberries and a dusting of confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Delicious Variations
1. Blueberry Swirl: Replace strawberries with fresh blueberries and add a swirl of blueberry compote.
2. Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top before baking for added texture.
3. Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips or drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.
Strawberries and Cream French Toast
This Strawberries and Cream French Toast is a decadent breakfast treat that tastes just like strawberry cheesecake. Thick slices of buttery brioche are stuffed with a sweet, velvety cream cheese filling and fresh strawberries, then dipped in a rich vanilla custard and pan-fried until golden. Perfect for a special weekend brunch or a holiday morning indulgence.
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4 stuffed toasts
Ingredients
— The Cream Cheese Filling —
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1/4 cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced small
— The French Toast —
8 slices thick-cut Brioche or Challah bread (about 1-inch thick)
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
2-3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)
— For Serving —
Maple syrup
Fresh sliced strawberries
Whipped cream
Dusting of powdered sugar
Instructions
1. **Make the Filling:** In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the diced strawberries so they are evenly distributed.
2. **Stuff the Bread:** Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of 4 slices of bread (leave a small border around the edges to prevent leaking). Top each with a second slice of bread to create a sandwich. Press down gently to seal.
3. **Prepare the Custard:** In a wide, shallow dish (like a pie plate), whisk together the eggs, milk, remaining vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until fully combined.
4. **Heat the Pan:** Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. **Dip & Cook:** Working one or two at a time, quickly dip each stuffed sandwich into the egg custard, coating both sides. Do not soak for too long (about 2-3 seconds per side) or the bread may become soggy. Place immediately into the hot skillet.
6. **Fry:** Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is deep golden brown and the filling is warmed through. Repeat with remaining sandwiches, adding more butter to the pan as needed.
7. **Serve:** Cut the French toast in half diagonally. Serve warm, topped with extra fresh strawberries, a dollop of whipped cream, maple syrup, and a dusting of powdered sugar.
Notes
Bread Choice: Brioche or Challah are best because they are sturdy enough to hold the filling but soft enough to absorb the custard. Day-old bread works even better as it absorbs liquid without falling apart.
Preventing Leaks: Don’t spread the filling all the way to the very edge of the crust. Leaving a small rim helps seal the sandwich as the egg cooks.
Keep Warm: If making a large batch, place the cooked French toast on a wire rack in a baking sheet and keep them in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you finish frying the rest.
Filling Variation: You can swap the strawberries for raspberries or blueberries, or add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese for a brighter flavor.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan Fry
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
FAQ
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! While brioche is ideal for its richness, challah or even a sturdy sourdough can work well.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for prepping the night before. Simply assemble, cover, and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning.
Conclusion
This Strawberries and Cream French Toast is more than just a breakfast—it’s a experience. With its creamy layers, juicy strawberries, and golden crust, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this recipe is a surefire winner. For more delicious ideas, follow me on Pinterest.