Strawberry Stuffed French Toast is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast dish, featuring creamy cheese and fresh strawberries stuffed between thick slices of bread, then dipped in a rich egg mixture and cooked to golden perfection. This indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions, brunch gatherings, or a sweet weekend breakfast!

Ingredients List

For the Stuffed French Toast:

• 8 slices of thick bread (such as brioche or challah)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for egg mixture)
• Butter or oil for cooking

For Serving:

• Maple syrup
• Additional fresh strawberries
• Whipped cream (optional)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Timing

Preparing Strawberry Stuffed French Toast takes about 15 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 35 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Strawberries: Gently fold in the sliced strawberries into the cream cheese mixture.

Step 2: Assemble the French Toast

1. Spread Filling: Take 4 slices of bread and spread a generous amount of the cream cheese and strawberry mixture on each slice. Top with the remaining 4 slices to create sandwiches.
2. Press Together: Gently press down on each sandwich to seal them.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

1. Whisk Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Cook the French Toast

1. Heat Pan: In a large skillet or griddle, heat a tablespoon of butter or oil over medium heat.
2. Dip Sandwiches: Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated.
3. Cook: Place the sandwiches in the heated skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate: Remove from the skillet and cut each stuffed French toast in half.
2. Garnish: Serve warm, drizzled with maple syrup, and topped with additional fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Strawberry Stuffed French Toast (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450
Protein	12g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	56g
Fiber	2g

Tips for Customization

• Add Other Fruits: Substitute or add other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or bananas for variety.
• Use Different Breads: Experiment with different types of bread, such as sourdough or whole grain, for different flavors and textures.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of orange zest to the egg mixture for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Strawberry Stuffed French Toast pairs well with:

• A side of crispy bacon or sausage.
• Fresh fruit salad for a refreshing side.
• A hot cup of coffee or tea.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Using Thick Bread: Make sure to use thick slices of bread to hold the filling and egg mixture without falling apart.
2. Overcrowding the Pan: Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can lead to uneven cooking.
3. Skipping the Pressing Step: Pressing the sandwiches helps seal the filling inside, preventing it from leaking out during cooking.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Strawberry Stuffed French Toast is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

In just over half an hour, you can create Strawberry Stuffed French Toast, a delicious and visually appealing breakfast that’s sure to impress family and friends. This sweet and creamy dish is perfect for any brunch occasion!

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cream cheese filling and assemble the sandwiches the night before. Just refrigerate them and dip in the egg mixture before cooking in the morning.

Can I freeze the stuffed French toast?

Yes! You can freeze the cooked French toast. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best results.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can substitute with mascarpone cheese or ricotta for a different but equally delicious filling.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary preferences.