Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast

Introduction

A delightful breakfast treat

If you’re searching for a breakfast recipe that’s both indulgent and easy to make, the strawberry cream cheese stuffed French toast is the perfect choice. This decadent dish combines the sweetness of strawberries with the creamy richness of cream cheese, all enveloped in golden, buttery bread. It’s a flavorful way to start the day that feels like a sweet indulgence but is simple enough for anyone to prepare.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

What you’ll need

To create this delicious stuffed French toast, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients. Here’s what to have ready:
– Thick slices of bread (such as brioche or challah)
– Cream cheese (softened for easy spreading)
– Fresh strawberries (sliced)
– Eggs
– Milk
– Vanilla extract
– Ground cinnamon
– Butter (for cooking)
– Powdered sugar (optional for topping)
– Maple syrup (optional for serving)

Prep Time

Set the stage for a sweet breakfast

The preparation for strawberry cream cheese stuffed French toast is simple and quick. Most of the work involves assembling the ingredients and making the filling. It should take around 15 minutes to slice the bread, mix the eggs and milk, and prepare the cream cheese and strawberry filling.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Bring it all together

The cook time for this recipe is approximately 10–12 minutes, depending on how many pieces of French toast you’re making and how evenly heated your pan or griddle is. Including both prep and cooking, the total time for this recipe is about 25 minutes.

How much does it make?

This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it perfect for a small family breakfast or weekend brunch.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 2: Prep the Strawberries

Wash and finely dice the strawberries. Set them aside for later use.

Step 3: Slice the Bread and Create Pockets

Using a sharp knife, slice the bread into thick slices (around 1 to 1.5 inches thick). Carefully cut a pocket into the side of each slice of bread, making sure not to cut all the way through.

Step 4: Stuff the Bread

Take a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture and gently stuff it into the pocket of each bread slice. Add in some diced strawberries with the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to overfill, to avoid spilling during cooking.

Step 5: Make the Custard Mixture

In a shallow dish or bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, and a pinch of salt until fully combined.

Step 6: Heat the Skillet

Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with butter or non-stick cooking spray.

Step 7: Coat the Bread

Dip each stuffed bread slice into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated. Allow any excess custard to drip off.

Step 8: Cook the French Toast

Place each coated bread slice onto the preheated skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Make sure to cook thoroughly to heat the filling.

Step 9: Serve

Once cooked, remove from the skillet. Serve warm and optionally garnish with powdered sugar, additional fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or maple syrup, as desired.

Notes

Note 1: Choosing the Bread

Thick-sliced bread such as brioche, challah, or Texas toast works best for this recipe as it holds its shape well and absorbs the custard nicely.

Note 2: Adjusting the Sweetness

You can adjust the sugar in the cream cheese filling and custard to match your desired sweetness level.

Note 3: Make-Ahead Option

To save time, the cream cheese filling can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until needed.

Note 4: Use Fresh Strawberries

For the best flavor, always opt for fresh, ripe strawberries. Frozen strawberries can be used but should be thawed and drained thoroughly to remove excess moisture.

Note 5: Cooking Tip

Keep the skillet or griddle at medium heat to ensure thorough cooking without burning the French toast.

Note 6: Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or in the oven for best results. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the French toast soggy.

Cook Techniques

Preparing the Strawberry Mixture

Start by washing and slicing the strawberries. Set them aside to use as a filling or topping for your French toast.

Making the Cream Cheese Filling

Whip together the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Stuffing the Bread

Cut a pocket into each slice of bread and carefully stuff it with the cream cheese filling and a few strawberries, being cautious not to tear the bread.

Whisking the Egg Mixture

In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla for dipping the filled bread slices.

Cooking on Medium Heat

Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter to ensure an even golden-brown finish.

Dipping and Cooking

Dip each stuffed bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly. Cook each side on the skillet for a few minutes until golden and cooked through.

Plating and Topping

Serve the cooked French toast with additional strawberries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or drizzle with maple syrup or whipped cream.

FAQ

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid making the dish too soggy.

What type of bread is best for stuffed French toast?

Thick slices of brioche or challah bread work best as they hold up well and have a soft, fluffy texture ideal for stuffing.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

The French toast is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the cream cheese filling and strawberry mixture in advance and assemble it just before cooking.

How do I prevent the bread from tearing?

Use a serrated knife to gently cut the pocket into the bread and avoid overstuffing with the filling.

Can I substitute the cream cheese?

Yes, mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative can be used as a substitution.

What toppings pair well with this dish?

You can use fresh fruits, maple syrup, whipped cream, powdered sugar, or even a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat them in a skillet or toaster oven for the best texture.

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Conclusion

Transform your breakfast routine with this delightful Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast recipe. Perfectly balancing sweet and creamy flavors with a golden, crispy finish, this dish is sure to impress anyone at your table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself to a weekend indulgence, this recipe is a must-try for lovers of decadent breakfast options.

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