This Strawberry French Toast is a sweet breakfast treat that combines fluffy bread with juicy strawberries. Drizzle it with syrup, and you’re in for a morning delight!
I love serving this dish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top—it’s like a mini cake for breakfast! Who can resist a fruity start to the day? 🍓🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I recommend using thick slices of brioche or challah for a soft, fluffy texture. If you need a substitute, any thick bread like Texas toast or sturdy sandwich bread works well. Gluten-free bread can also be used for a gluten-free option.
Eggs: Four large eggs create a rich custard base for dipping. If you’re looking for an egg substitute, combine 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of yogurt per egg. Just remember, this may alter the flavor slightly.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and a delicious tang. If you’re avoiding dairy, vegan cream cheese works as a good substitute. You can also blend silken tofu for a dairy-free option.
Strawberries: Fresh berries provide natural sweetness. If strawberries aren’t available, feel free to swap in raspberries, blueberries, or even bananas for a different twist.
How to Get Perfectly Cooked French Toast?
Getting the perfect French toast requires some attention during cooking. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Heat your skillet on medium. Too hot and the toast burns; too low and it gets soggy.
- Dip the sandwich in the egg mixture, coating it without soaking for too long—just a few seconds on each side.
- Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Flip carefully to keep the filling inside.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to maintain even cooking.
With these tips, you can create a delightful Strawberry French Toast that’s a perfect start to any day! Enjoy your breakfast! 🍓🍞
Delicious Strawberry French Toast Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the French Toast:
- 8 slices thick bread (brioche or challah works great)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced, plus extra whole for garnish
For Cooking:
- Butter or oil for cooking
- Maple syrup, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 15 minutes to cook, making a total of approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and sweet breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt until everything is well blended. This will be the custard that soaks into the bread.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In another bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the 1/4 cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries to incorporate them into the filling.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Spread a generous layer of the strawberry cream cheese mixture onto 4 slices of bread. Top each of these with another slice, pressing down lightly to create easy-to-handle “sandwiches.”
4. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a little butter or oil. Make sure it’s hot enough before adding the sandwiches.
5. Dip the Sandwiches:
Gently dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides well, but don’t soak them for too long; just a quick dip is enough to avoid sogginess.
6. Cook the Sandwiches:
Carefully place the sandwiches onto the hot skillet. Cook until golden brown on one side, about 3-4 minutes. Flip the sandwiches and cook the other side until it’s also golden and cooked through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, transfer the strawberry French toast to plates. Dust with extra powdered sugar, place a whole strawberry on top for garnish, and drizzle generously with maple syrup.
8. Dig In!
Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy, fruity flavors while they’re warm. This Strawberry French Toast makes for a delightful and satisfying breakfast treat!
Enjoy your delicious strawberry French toast and have a wonderful breakfast! 🍓🍞
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before incorporating them into the cream cheese filling. This helps prevent the mixture from becoming too watery.
Can I Prepare the Filling Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container. Just give it a little stir before using to refresh the texture.
How Do I Store Leftover French Toast?
If you have leftovers, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either warm them in a toaster, oven, or microwave until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, simply substitute the thick bread with a gluten-free bread of your choice. There are many great gluten-free options available that can work perfectly for this recipe!
