Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast
Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast is a decadent breakfast recipe combining creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and custardy brioche or challah bread. Perfect for weekends or special occasions, this dish offers a rich, indulgent flavor with a golden crisp exterior and a soft, flavorful center.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Bread
- Thick slices of Brioche or Challah bread (6-8 slices)
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons sugar or honey
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
For Cooking
- Butter, for frying (about 2-3 tablespoons)
Fresh Fruit & Toppings
- 1 cup fresh ripe strawberries, sliced
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Maple syrup, for drizzling (optional)
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This filling will be spread inside the bread slices for the signature cheesecake taste.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread a generous amount of the cheesecake filling on one slice of bread, layer with sliced fresh strawberries, then top with another slice of bread. Gently press to seal without squashing the strawberries.
- Make the Custard Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or cream, vanilla extract, sugar or honey, and cinnamon until fully combined. This custard will soak the assembled sandwiches.
- Soak the Sandwiches: Carefully dip each stuffed sandwich into the custard mixture. Soak for about 30 seconds on each side, ensuring the bread absorbs the custard without becoming soggy.
- Cook Until Golden Brown: Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the soaked sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and caramelized with a crisp exterior.
- Serve Warm with Toppings: Plate the French toast immediately. Top with fresh strawberries, a dusting of powdered sugar, and/or a drizzle of maple syrup as desired for an enhanced presentation and flavor.
Notes
- Use thick bread slices like brioche or challah to hold the filling well.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to achieve a smooth filling.
- Avoid soaking the bread too long to prevent mushy French toast.
- Cook over medium heat to allow thorough cooking without burning.
- Select ripe but firm strawberries to avoid watery filling.
- Serve immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 155 mg
Keywords: Strawberry cheesecake french toast, dessert breakfast, creamy french toast, brioche french toast, brunch recipe, fruit french toast