Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast
Highlighted under: Simple Baking Favorites
I absolutely love making Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast for brunch. It’s a delightful mix of sweet strawberries and creamy cheese, all nestled between two slices of golden-brown French toast. The first time I made it, I was amazed at how the flavors meld together, creating a decadent morning treat. I enjoy experimenting with different toppings, from powdered sugar to maple syrup, but the strawberry and cream cheese combination is simply unbeatable. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests or treating myself on a lazy weekend morning.
When I first thought about combining strawberries with cream cheese in a breakfast dish, I wasn't entirely sure how it would turn out. However, once I attempted this recipe, I realized it was a match made in heaven. The richness of the cream cheese balances perfectly with the tartness of the strawberries, creating a harmonious flavor profile that captivates the palate.
One key tip I discovered is to let the stuffed French toast sit in the egg mixture for an extra minute. This allows the bread to absorb more flavor and moisture, ensuring that every bite is deliciously satisfying. Trust me, this small step elevates the dish to a whole new level!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Juicy strawberry filling that bursts with flavor
- Creamy cheese adds a unique texture
- Perfect balance of sweetness and tartness
- Great for any brunch occasion
Choosing the Right Bread
The choice of bread is crucial for making the perfect French toast. For this recipe, I recommend using thicker slices like Texas toast or brioche, as they provide a soft interior that soaks up the egg mixture beautifully while achieving a golden crust when cooked. If you want a slightly denser option, challah works great too. Avoid using bread that’s too airy, as it may disintegrate during cooking and not support the creamy filling adequately.
If you're looking for a lighter alternative or prefer a whole-grain option, whole wheat or multigrain bread can be substituted. Just be aware that this might alter the flavor profile slightly, offering a nuttier taste that complements the strawberries well. Whichever bread you choose, make sure it’s a day or two old; stale bread holds up better to soaking, resulting in the ideal texture.
Expert Cooking Tips
When cooking your stuffed French toast, maintaining the right heat is essential. Start with medium heat and adjust if necessary; too high can lead to a burnt exterior before the inside is warm. Look for golden-brown edges as a cue to flip the toast. I find that using a non-stick skillet helps in achieving the perfect crust without sticking, but for an extra indulgence, a cast-iron skillet can provide that beautifully even browning.
As you cook the French toast, ensure you dip the sandwiches thoroughly into the egg mixture, allowing them to soak for about a minute on each side. However, don’t let them soak too long, or they may become soggy. A quick dip followed by a shake to remove excess egg works best to achieve a tender yet sturdy base that can hold the luscious filling wonderfully.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful experience:
For the French Toast
- 8 slices of bread (Texas toast or brioche)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Butter for cooking
For Serving (optional)
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Extra sliced strawberries
Ensure you have everything ready for a delicious treat!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast:
Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sliced strawberries. Mash them together gently until well mixed, but still chunky. Set aside.
Make the Egg Mixture
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, and cinnamon until fully combined.
Assemble the Toast
Spread a generous amount of the cream cheese and strawberry mixture onto a slice of bread, then top it with another slice to create a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining bread.
Cook the French Toast
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for about a minute on each side. Cook until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Serve
Slice the stuffed French toast and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm with maple syrup and extra strawberries.
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast!
Pro Tips
- For a healthier option, use whole-grain bread and reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe. Additionally, feel free to experiment with various fruits such as blueberries or raspberries for different flavors.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast, consider pairing it with a homemade strawberry compote. Simply simmer chopped strawberries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice until they break down and thicken slightly. This will not only enhance the strawberry flavor but also introduce a warm, syrupy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the filling.
For added flair, I love serving this dish with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The rich creaminess of the toppings complements the tart strawberries perfectly, creating an addictive mix of flavors and textures. Experiment with adding a sprinkle of crushed nuts on top for a delightful crunch that balances out the softness of the toast.
Make-Ahead Tips
If you're hosting brunch and want to streamline your morning, consider preparing the cream cheese and strawberry filling the night before. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. You can also assemble the sandwiches ahead of time, but I recommend not dipping them in the egg mixture until you’re ready to cook. This will help maintain the bread's structure and prevent sogginess.
For leftovers, the stuffed French toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat them on a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally, to restore their delightful crispness. For freezer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be frozen for up to one month; just pop them in the toaster or skillet directly from the freezer when you're ready to enjoy them again.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well too. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using.
→ What type of bread is best for French toast?
Texas toast, brioche, or challah are excellent choices for a rich and satisfying French toast.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the filling and egg mixture in advance. Just assemble and cook the French toast when ready.
→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use ricotta cheese or mascarpone as a substitute for cream cheese for a different but delicious outcome.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast
I absolutely love making Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast for brunch. It’s a delightful mix of sweet strawberries and creamy cheese, all nestled between two slices of golden-brown French toast. The first time I made it, I was amazed at how the flavors meld together, creating a decadent morning treat. I enjoy experimenting with different toppings, from powdered sugar to maple syrup, but the strawberry and cream cheese combination is simply unbeatable. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests or treating myself on a lazy weekend morning.
Created by: Pippa Lawson
Recipe Type: Simple Baking Favorites
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the French Toast
- 8 slices of bread (Texas toast or brioche)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Butter for cooking
For Serving (optional)
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Extra sliced strawberries
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sliced strawberries. Mash them together gently until well mixed, but still chunky. Set aside.
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, and cinnamon until fully combined.
Spread a generous amount of the cream cheese and strawberry mixture onto a slice of bread, then top it with another slice to create a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining bread.
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for about a minute on each side. Cook until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Slice the stuffed French toast and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm with maple syrup and extra strawberries.
Extra Tips
- For a healthier option, use whole-grain bread and reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe. Additionally, feel free to experiment with various fruits such as blueberries or raspberries for different flavors.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g