If you love classic French toast, this stuffed strawberry cheesecake version will become your new favorite indulgence. Thick slices of French bread are filled with a luscious strawberry cream cheese mixture, dipped in a cinnamon-spiced egg custard, and fried until golden brown. The result is a perfectly crisp exterior with a creamy, fruity center—an irresistible breakfast or brunch treat that tastes like dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. The cream cheese filling is smooth and slightly tangy, perfectly balanced with the natural sweetness of strawberries and a touch of lemon zest. The egg custard is rich and fragrant with vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, giving each bite that comforting, cozy flavor. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weekend breakfast, this stuffed French toast looks impressive but comes together in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the custard:

• ½ cup milk
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg

For the toast:

• 4–6 thick slices of French bread (preferably a few days old)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• Zest of half a lemon (about ½ teaspoon)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ½ cup diced strawberries

For garnish:

• Butter
• Maple syrup
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh strawberries

Directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg to make the custard. Set aside.
2. In another bowl, whip the softened cream cheese until smooth and silky.
3. Sift in the powdered sugar and mix well. Add lemon zest and lemon juice, then fold in the diced strawberries.
4. Slice the French bread into thick slices (about 1 inch each).
5. Spread the strawberry cream cheese mixture on two slices of bread, avoiding the edges to prevent leaking. Top with another slice of bread to make a sandwich.
6. Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt a bit of butter with a touch of oil.
7. Dip each sandwich into the custard mixture, coating both sides evenly.
8. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crisp.
9. Serve immediately with butter, powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh strawberries.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes

Variations

• Berry Swap: Replace strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries.
• Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the cream cheese filling for a dessert-like version.
• Nutty Touch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds between the filling layers for extra crunch.
• Citrus Version: Substitute orange zest and juice for the lemon to create a brighter, sweeter flavor.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sandwiches (without dipping in the custard) a day ahead. Wrap tightly and refrigerate. When ready to cook, dip in the custard and fry as usual.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, just thaw and drain them before mixing into the cream cheese to avoid excess moisture.

2. What’s the best bread for French toast?

Day-old French bread or brioche works best because it absorbs the custard without falling apart.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the sandwiches the night before, but dip and cook them fresh for the best texture.

4. Can I bake this instead of frying?

Yes, place the dipped sandwiches on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk.

6. How can I make it less sweet?

Reduce the powdered sugar in the filling or skip the syrup topping.

7. What kind of pan should I use?

A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best for even browning.

8. Can I use whipped cream cheese?

Yes, whipped cream cheese makes the filling even lighter and easier to spread.

9. Can I use whole wheat bread?

You can, but it will be denser and slightly less soft than white or French bread.

10. How do I prevent the toast from burning?

Cook over medium heat and adjust the temperature as needed—too high heat can brown the outside before the inside is done.

Conclusion

Stuffed Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast is a luxurious yet simple dish that combines creamy, fruity, and warm flavors in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, a holiday breakfast, or just a cozy morning treat, it’s guaranteed to impress. This recipe is proof that with just a few ingredients, you can turn an ordinary breakfast into something extraordinary.

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