Welcome to a delicious twist on breakfast! Today, I will share my delightful Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast recipe. This dish combines sweet strawberries, creamy cheese, and fluffy bread for a morning treat you can't resist. Perfect for family brunch or a special day, this recipe is easy to follow and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into the ingredients you'll need to start your mouth-watering journey!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Indulgent: This French toast combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, juicy flavor of strawberries, making every bite a heavenly indulgence.
- Quick and Easy:
- Perfect for Sharing: With 2 servings, it's an ideal recipe to share with a loved one, making breakfast feel special and intimate.
- Customizable Delight: This recipe allows you to personalize your French toast with various toppings such as different fruits, nuts, or flavored syrups, catering to your taste preferences.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
For this delightful dish, gather the following items:
- 4 slices of thick brioche bread
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Maple syrup, for drizzling
- Whipped cream, for garnish (optional)
Ingredient Substitutions
You can adjust some ingredients if needed:
- Use challah or sourdough instead of brioche for a different taste.
- Swap cream cheese for ricotta or mascarpone for a lighter feel.
- If you don't have powdered sugar, granulated sugar works fine too.
- Substitute almond or coconut milk for dairy-free options.
- Try different berries like blueberries or raspberries.
Measurement Guide
Here’s a quick guide to help with measuring:
- 1 cup equals 8 fluid ounces.
- 1/4 cup equals 2 fluid ounces.
- 1 teaspoon is approximately 5 milliliters.
- 1 tablespoon is equal to 3 teaspoons.
Use these conversions to ensure you get the right amounts for a tasty result!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling
To start, grab a medium bowl. Add 1 cup of softened cream cheese. Next, mix in 1/4 cup of powdered sugar. Then, pour in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or a whisk. Beat the mixture until it is smooth and creamy. This filling is the star of your dish. Set this cream cheese filling aside for later use.
Making the Custard Mixture
In a separate bowl, crack 2 large eggs. Pour in 1/2 cup of milk. Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk these ingredients together until they blend well. This custard mixture will soak into the bread. It adds richness and flavor to your French toast.
Cooking the French Toast
Now, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once it is hot, add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Let the butter melt and cover the skillet. Take a slice of brioche bread. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese filling on one side. Layer some sliced strawberries on top. Press them down gently to stick.
Next, dip the cream cheese side into the egg mixture. Make sure it soaks just a little. You don’t want it too soggy. Place the soaked bread slice in the skillet, cream cheese side down. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. If you want, you can add a bit more butter while cooking.
Once browned, flip the slice over. Cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes. Remove the French toast and repeat with the other slices. To serve, stack the French toast or make a sandwich. Drizzle with maple syrup, add more strawberries, and top with whipped cream, if you like. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Right Bread
I love using thick brioche bread for this recipe. It soaks up the custard well. You can also try challah or sourdough if you like. These breads have a nice texture and flavor. They make the French toast rich and filling. Look for bread that is slightly day-old. This helps it absorb the custard better without falling apart.
Cooking Tips for Perfect French Toast
To cook French toast just right, preheat your skillet first. Medium heat works best to avoid burning. Use a non-stick skillet for easy flipping. Add butter to the hot skillet for flavor. Make sure to dip the bread quickly in the egg mixture. You want it soaked but not soggy. Cook each slice until it turns golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Don't rush the cooking; let it brown nicely for the best taste.
Garnishing Suggestions
Garnishing makes your French toast look special. A drizzle of maple syrup adds sweetness. Fresh strawberries on top give a burst of flavor. You can also add whipped cream for a treat. Another idea is to sprinkle some powdered sugar over the top. This makes it pretty and adds a hint of sweetness. Enjoy your creation with a cup of coffee or tea!
Pro Tips
- Use Day-Old Brioche: For the best texture, use brioche that’s a day old. It soaks up the custard better without falling apart.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries into the cream cheese filling for a delightful twist.
- Keep it Warm: If making multiple slices, keep the cooked French toast warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while you finish cooking the rest.
- Presentation Matters: For a beautiful presentation, layer the French toast with fresh strawberries in between the slices before drizzling with syrup.
Variations
Seasonal Fruit Options
You can change the fruit in this recipe based on the season. In summer, use ripe peaches or blueberries. In fall, try slices of warm apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Winter brings tasty citrus like oranges or even pomegranates. Each fruit adds a unique twist to the French toast. They not only change the flavor but also the look of your dish.
Alternative Cream Cheese Flavors
Experimenting with cream cheese flavors can elevate your French toast. Try mixing in some lemon zest for a fresh taste. You can also add a hint of almond extract or even chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. For a savory touch, blend in herbs like chives or dill. Each variation can make your dish feel new and exciting.
Savory Versions of French Toast
If you prefer savory flavors, you can transform this recipe easily. Skip the sugar and vanilla in the cream cheese. Instead, add salt, pepper, and herbs. Top the French toast with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Crumbled bacon or feta cheese adds a nice touch too. This gives you a delightful twist that will impress at any brunch.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover strawberry cheesecake French toast in a sealed container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy it again later!
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use a skillet over low heat. Warm each piece for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You can also use a microwave. Heat each slice for about 30 seconds. Check if it's warm enough before eating.
Freezing French Toast
You can freeze this French toast too! Place cooled slices in a freezer-safe bag. Try to remove as much air as possible. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. This keeps it fresh and tasty!
FAQs
What can I use instead of brioche bread?
If you don’t have brioche, you can try challah or French bread. Both give a soft, sweet taste. You can also use regular white bread, but it may not be as rich.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture and store it in the fridge. You can also soak the bread slices in the egg mixture ahead. Just cook them in the morning for fresh French toast.
How do I know when the French toast is done?
You’ll know the French toast is done when it is golden brown on both sides. The bread should feel firm to the touch. If you want, you can use a knife to check if the center is hot.
This blog post showed you how to make great French toast. We covered the ingredients, measurement tips, and steps to prepare the dish. You learned helpful tips on choosing bread and cooking it just right. We explored fun variations with fruits and flavors, plus how to store leftovers. Always feel free to experiment and adapt to your taste. Enjoy your delicious French toast and make it your own!
