Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast is a delightful breakfast treat that combines the richness of cream cheese and the sweetness of fresh strawberries, all nestled between slices of golden-brown French toast. This indulgent dish is perfect for special occasions or leisurely weekend mornings.
Ingredients:
For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ½ cup diced fresh strawberries, plus extra for serving
For the French Toast:
- 12 slices thick-cut bread (such as brioche, challah, or French bread)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Butter, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Strawberry Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and honey. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Fold in the diced strawberries. Refrigerate the mixture until ready to use.
- Assemble the French Toast:
- Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface.
- Spread a generous amount of the strawberry cream cheese filling onto one slice of bread.
- Top with another slice of bread to form a sandwich.
- Repeat this process with the remaining bread slices and cream cheese filling.
- Prepare the Custard:
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Cook the French Toast:
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter.
- Dip each sandwich into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
- Place the custard-soaked sandwich onto the heated skillet.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the skillet and keep warm.
- Serve:
- Slice the French toast sandwiches in half diagonally and arrange them on serving plates.
- Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with additional fresh strawberries.
- Serve with warm maple syrup on the side.
Variations and Tips:
- Bread Selection: Choosing a sturdy, slightly sweet bread like brioche or challah enhances the flavor and texture of the French toast.
- Berry Options: Feel free to substitute strawberries with other berries such as blueberries or raspberries, depending on availability and preference.
- Make-Ahead: The strawberry cream cheese filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator for convenience.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a light fruit salad or a cup of freshly brewed coffee to complete your breakfast experience.
This Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast offers a luxurious twist on traditional French toast, combining creamy, fruity, and warm flavors in every bite. It’s sure to become a favorite in your breakfast repertoire.
