Breakfast and brunch are my favorite meals to get creative with, and nothing quite captures the magic of a sweet and savory fusion like these Candied Bacon Loaded French Toast Bombs with Cream Cheese. Forget everything you thought you knew about French toast! We’re talking about thick, eggy brioche bread, generously spread with creamy cream cheese, loaded with unbelievably crispy, caramelized candied bacon, and then griddled to golden perfection. Once cooked, these delightful “bombs” are cut into bite-sized pieces, making them perfect for sharing (or hoarding, no judgment here!). They’re an explosion of flavor and texture, guaranteed to make any morning feel like a special occasion.

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Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true testament to the power of combining simple, beloved ingredients in an unexpected way. I absolutely adore these Candied Bacon Loaded French Toast Bombs because they hit all the right notes: the salty crunch of the candied bacon, the tangy creaminess of the cream cheese, and the soft, rich sweetness of the French toast. It’s a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and exciting. Plus, making them into “bombs” (or bite-sized pieces) makes them incredibly fun to eat and share, perfect for a relaxed weekend brunch with friends or family. They feel incredibly decadent, yet they’re surprisingly straightforward to prepare, proving that gourmet doesn’t have to mean complicated.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these irresistible French Toast Bombs:

• 8 slices of thick-cut bacon
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (plus more for serving, if desired)
• 8 slices of brioche bread (thick-cut is best)
• 8 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar for dusting

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Swaps and Notes

This recipe is already amazing, but here are a few ideas to make it even more “you”:

• Bacon: While thick-cut bacon is ideal for holding up to the candying process, regular bacon will work too, just keep an eye on it as it bakes. For a deeper maple flavor, use maple-cured bacon.
• Brown Sugar: You can use dark brown sugar for a richer molasses note in the candied bacon.
• Brioche Bread: Challah bread or Texas toast are excellent substitutes if brioche isn’t available. The key is a slightly thicker, rich bread that can absorb the custard without falling apart.
• Cream Cheese: For a sweeter filling, you can mix a teaspoon of powdered sugar into the cream cheese before spreading. You could also try a flavored cream cheese, like strawberry or cinnamon swirl.
• Cinnamon: A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of pumpkin pie spice would also be lovely additions to the French toast.
• Milk: Half-and-half or heavy cream can be used for an even richer custard.
• Flavor Boost: Add a tiny pinch of salt to the egg mixture to enhance the flavors. A splash of bourbon or rum in the custard (about 1 tablespoon) could also add a sophisticated touch.

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List of Steps for the Recipe

Let’s get cooking these delectable French toast bombs!

1. Prepare Candied Bacon: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the 8 slices of thick-cut bacon in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Evenly sprinkle the 1/4 cup of brown sugar over the bacon slices, then drizzle with the 1/4 cup of maple syrup.
2. Bake Bacon: Bake the bacon in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and beautifully caramelized. Keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning, as sugar can burn quickly. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet; it will crisp up further as it cools. Once cool, cut each slice of candied bacon in half.
3. Assemble Sandwiches: Take 4 slices of brioche bread. Evenly spread 1 tablespoon of softened cream cheese onto each of these four slices. Place 4 halves of the cooled candied bacon on top of the cream cheese on each slice. Sprinkle generously with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Place the remaining 4 slices of brioche bread on top to create four delicious sandwiches.
4. Prepare Egg Custard: In a shallow dish (wide enough to dip the sandwiches), whisk together the 4 large eggs, 1/2 cup milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Dip Sandwiches: Carefully dip each assembled brioche sandwich into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly. Let any excess custard drip off.
6. Cook French Toast: Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a light drizzle of vegetable oil or a pat of butter to the skillet. Place the dipped sandwiches in the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy, and the cream cheese is warm. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
7. Cool and Cut: Remove the cooked French toast sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool slightly on a cutting board for a few minutes. This makes them easier to handle.
8. Form “Bombs”: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut each French toast sandwich into bite-sized pieces or “bombs” – typically 4-6 pieces per sandwich, depending on your desired size.
9. Serve: Arrange the Candied Bacon Loaded French Toast Bombs with Cream Cheese on a serving platter. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving. You can also offer extra maple syrup on the side for dipping! Enjoy this sweet and savory breakfast treat!

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Tips for Success

• Don’t Rush the Bacon: Let the candied bacon cool completely. It becomes wonderfully crisp as it chills, which is crucial for texture.
• Thick Bread is Key: Brioche or challah are ideal because their sturdy yet soft texture can handle the filling and the custard dip without getting soggy.
• Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy, smooth spreading.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook the French toast sandwiches in batches if needed. Overcrowding can lower the pan temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
• Serve Warm: These “bombs” are best enjoyed warm when the cream cheese is melty and the French toast is still golden and soft.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Candied Bacon Loaded French Toast Bombs are a showstopper on their own, but here are some ideas to make it a full spread:

• Brunch Spread: Serve alongside fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a light fruit salad to balance the richness.
• Beverages: Pair with a hot cup of coffee, a mimosa, or a tall glass of milk. For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, consider a light smoothie.
• Other Breakfast Favorites: If you’re hosting a large brunch, these would be fantastic alongside something savory like This One-Pan Breakfast Bake Will Make You Skip your old routine, or the trendy The Viral Cottage Cheese Pancake Everyones.
• Syrup Options: While maple syrup is classic, a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a fruit compote could also be delightful.

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Storage and Leftover Tips

These French Toast Bombs are definitely best enjoyed fresh and warm. However, if you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

To reheat, the best method is to warm them gently in a toaster oven or a regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, until heated through and the bacon crisps up a bit. The microwave can work but might make them less crispy.

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More Recipes You Will Love

If you’re a fan of creative breakfast and dessert mashups, be sure to check out some of my other favorite recipes:

• For another comforting sweet treat, try This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is My Favorite Way to Use Up Overripe Bananas.
• If you’re looking for a hearty, family-friendly dessert that’s always a hit, This Big Family Banana Pudding is My Favorite Classic Dessert to Feed a Crowd is perfect.
• And for another quick and easy breakfast hack, check out This 3-Ingredient Egg Wrap Is Taking Over Busy mornings!

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Final Thoughts

These Candied Bacon Loaded French Toast Bombs with Cream Cheese are more than just a breakfast item; they’re a celebration of flavor and fun. The sweet, salty, and savory combination is truly addictive, and the bite-sized format makes them a joy to eat. They’re perfect for elevating any morning or making a special occasion even more memorable.

I encourage you to try them out and experience the deliciousness for yourself! Let me know in the comments below how they turned out for you or if you added your own unique spin. And for more exciting recipes that blend comfort with creativity, remember to visit ChefManiac.com!