Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast
There’s something magical about turning a simple breakfast into something that feels straight out of a cozy brunch café. This Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast is exactly that kind of recipe. With thick slices of brioche or challah stuffed with a sweet cream cheese filling and fresh strawberries, then dipped in cinnamon-vanilla custard and cooked to golden perfection, it’s indulgent without being complicated.
Whether you’re hosting brunch, celebrating a holiday morning, or just treating your family on a Sunday, this recipe delivers that “wow” factor with surprisingly simple ingredients.
Why I Love This Recipe
As a food writer, I’m always chasing recipes that feel special but don’t require hours in the kitchen. This one checks every box:
- Creamy, slightly tangy filling that balances the sweetness
- Fresh strawberries for natural brightness
- Crisp, golden edges with a soft, custardy center
- Easy to prep ahead for stress-free mornings
It’s elegant enough for guests but simple enough for a cozy breakfast at home. Honestly, it tastes like strawberry cheesecake met classic French toast—and I’m not mad about it.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
For the French Toast
- 8 slices thick-cut bread (brioche or challah work beautifully)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Butter, for frying
For Serving
- Maple syrup
- Additional sliced strawberries
- Powdered sugar (optional)
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
- Bread matters: Thick-cut brioche gives a rich, buttery finish, while challah offers a slightly lighter texture. Texas toast also works well.
- Strawberries: Fresh is best, but in a pinch, thawed frozen strawberries (well-drained) can work.
- Citrus boost: Add a splash of orange juice or a bit of zest to the filling for brightness.
- Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and almond or oat milk.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Gently fold in the diced strawberries. Set aside.
2. Make the French Toast Batter
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and well blended.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly onto four slices of bread. Top with the remaining slices to form sandwiches. Press gently to seal.
4. Cook the French Toast
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter and allow it to melt.
Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly but not soaking too long. Place onto the hot skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
You’re looking for a crisp exterior with a warm, creamy center.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer to plates and serve warm with maple syrup, fresh sliced strawberries, and a dusting of powdered sugar.
Tips for Success
- Don’t oversoak the bread. Thick bread can handle the batter, but too long will make it soggy.
- Cook on medium heat. Too high and the outside browns before the inside heats through.
- Use room-temperature cream cheese. It blends smoother and spreads easier.
- Wipe the skillet between batches to avoid burnt butter residue.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This French toast is rich and satisfying, so pairing it thoughtfully elevates the meal even more.
For drinks, I love serving it with a bright, refreshing option like This Blueberry Lemonade Is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Days. The citrusy sweetness complements the creamy filling perfectly.
If you’re building out a full brunch spread, try adding something savory like This One Pan Breakfast Bake Will Make You Skip to balance the sweetness.
For a quick grab-and-go breakfast option later in the week, These 3-Ingredient Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies Are My Morning Time Saver are a great contrast to this indulgent dish.
And if you’re planning a full dessert-forward brunch, you can’t go wrong with This Big Family Banana Pudding Is My Favorite Classic Dessert to Feed a Crowd.
Chocolate lovers? Add a sweet dip station with This Brownie Batter Dip Is My Favorite No-Bake Dessert for Instant Chocolate Cravings.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 20g
- Sugar: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
Nutritional values may vary depending on bread choice and toppings.
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet or air fryer for best texture. The microwave works, but it softens the exterior.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
If you anticipate leftovers, consider cooking slightly underdone and reheating gently to maintain texture.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If this Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast hit the sweet spot, here are a few more reader favorites to explore:
- This Blueberry Lemonade Is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Days
- This One Pan Breakfast Bake Will Make You Skip
- These 3-Ingredient Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies Are My Morning Time Saver
- This Big Family Banana Pudding Is My Favorite Classic Dessert to Feed a Crowd
- This Brownie Batter Dip Is My Favorite No-Bake Dessert for Instant Chocolate Cravings
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast is one of those recipes that feels luxurious but is incredibly approachable. It transforms everyday ingredients into something memorable and brunch-worthy.
If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Did you add citrus zest? Try a different berry? Leave a comment and share your twist.
And don’t forget to follow along for more crave-worthy comfort food recipes that bring a little extra joy to your kitchen.
Happy cooking!
— Jason Griffith, ChefManiac
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