Print

Creamy Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast

creamy strawberry cream cheese stuffed french toast - featured image

A quick and easy stuffed French toast recipe featuring a creamy strawberry cream cheese filling, perfect for a special breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices thick-cut bread (brioche or challah preferred)
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (150 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and thinly sliced
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp freshly grated lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • Unsalted butter for frying (clarified butter optional)
  • Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
  • Maple syrup or strawberry syrup (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, beat 8 oz softened cream cheese with 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 tsp freshly grated lemon zest until smooth and creamy (3-4 minutes with a hand mixer or longer by hand).
  2. Slice the strawberries: Hull and thinly slice 1 cup fresh strawberries. Gently fold them into the cream cheese mixture without crushing the berries. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the bread: Take 8 slices of thick-cut brioche or challah. Using a sharp knife, create a pocket by cutting a slit through the middle of each slice, careful not to cut all the way through. Stuff each pocket generously with the strawberry cream cheese filling.
  4. Make the custard: In a shallow bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until fully combined and frothy (about 2 minutes).
  5. Heat the pan: Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a tablespoon of unsalted butter. Let it melt and coat the surface evenly.
  6. Dip and cook: One at a time, gently dip each stuffed bread slice into the egg custard, soaking about 20 seconds per side without falling apart. Transfer to the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.
  7. Finishing touches: Remove the French toast from the pan and place on a warm plate. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve immediately with maple syrup or extra fresh strawberries.

Notes

Use thick-cut brioche or challah for best results. Do not overfill the bread pockets to avoid leaks. Dip bread quickly in custard to prevent sogginess. Cook on medium heat for a crispy crust and melty center. Keep cooked slices warm in a low oven (200°F) if making multiple servings. Powdered sugar and maple syrup are optional but recommended for serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed french toast, strawberry cream cheese, breakfast, brunch, easy recipe, creamy filling, brioche french toast