If you’re searching for a brunch dish that feels just as special as it tastes, look no further than this Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake. With juicy strawberries tucked between layers of custard-soaked French bread and creamy pockets of rich cream cheese, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delightfully decadent meal for gatherings, holidays, or lazy weekend mornings. It comes together with minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor and irresistible, bakery-worthy aroma that’ll have everyone racing to the breakfast table.

Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake plays an important role in creating its dreamy layers and unforgettable taste. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this recipe so magical, from the crisp French bread to the bursts of strawberry flavor.

French bread (1 loaf, cut into 1-inch cubes, about 10 cups): The sturdy texture of French bread soaks up the custard but stays wonderfully soft and fluffy inside.
Fresh strawberries (1 cup, sliced): Sweet and juicy strawberries bring pops of color and tartness that balance out the richness of the cream and cheese.
Cream cheese (8 oz, cubed): Cubes of cream cheese melt into luscious, tangy bites that make every forkful extra special.
Large eggs (6): Eggs bind everything together and form a creamy custard that bakes up golden and delicate.
Milk (1 1/2 cups): Whole or 2% milk ensures a silky-smooth base for the custard.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): For extra richness and a luxurious texture, don’t skip this!
Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Just the right amount of sweetness to complement the berries and cream cheese.
Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Vanilla deepens the flavor and brings out the sweetness of the strawberries.
Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): A touch of cinnamon gives that classic, homey French toast warmth.
Powdered sugar (for serving, optional): A simple dusting on top makes the casserole look as gorgeous as it tastes.
Maple syrup (for serving, optional): A drizzle of syrup adds a final touch of indulgence to each portion.

How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake

Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish

Begin by greasing a trusty 9×13-inch baking dish. This step is the secret to easy cleanup and ensures every slice of your Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake lifts out without a hitch.

Step 2: Assemble the Layers

Scatter half of your bread cubes evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. Next, sprinkle with half of the sliced strawberries and then dot the surface with every last cream cheese cube. Finish with the remaining bread and berries, building beautiful layers that bake up golden and gorgeous.

Step 3: Mix the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Whisk until smooth—this is your flavorful custard that soaks into the bread and ties everything together.

Step 4: Pour and Soak

Pour the custard mixture slowly and evenly over the bread and strawberrry layers, taking care that every corner is covered. Gently press the bread down with a spatula or the back of a spoon so it has a chance to absorb that luscious mixture.

Step 5: Chill

Cover the dish tightly with foil and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or, for best results, overnight. This soaking time is what transforms the mix into a cohesive, tender French toast bake.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Leave the casserole covered and bake for 30 minutes to lock in moisture, then uncover and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes until puffed, golden, and set in the center.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let your Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake cool just slightly to set. Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and dive in while it’s warm and irresistibly fragrant.

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake

Garnishes

Elevate this showstopper with garnishes like fresh strawberry slices, a generous dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream. These simple touches amplify both presentation and flavor, making every plate feel special.

Side Dishes

Round out your brunch spread with classics like crispy bacon, breakfast sausages, or a refreshing fruit salad. The lightness of fruit or the savoriness of meats balances the richness of the Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, portion the bake into single servings in ramekins for a dinner party brunch, or offer a toppings bar with extra berries, nuts, and flavored syrups so everyone can personalize their own slice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake, simply cover the dish or transfer pieces to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Want to keep some for a future treat? Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through (about 20 minutes), or zap individual portions in the microwave. For the crispiest texture, finish uncovered for a few minutes in the oven.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the berries so they don’t add excess liquid to your Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake.

Does this have to chill overnight?

While overnight chilling leads to the best, most custardy texture, a minimum of 2 hours is sufficient if you’re short on time.

Can I assemble this ahead and bake later?

Yes! This bake is actually better when prepared ahead, making it perfect for stress-free holiday mornings or entertaining.

What’s the best bread to use?

Day-old French bread is ideal because it absorbs the custard without getting too mushy. You can also use challah or brioche for a richer variation.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, the Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake is naturally vegetarian and a crowd-pleaser for any brunch table!

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting dish to bring people together, and this Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake does exactly that. Whether for a holiday morning or a relaxed brunch with friends, it’s easy to make, downright delicious, and destined to become a favorite at your table. Give it a try—you’ll want to savor every last sweet, creamy bite!

Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake Recipe

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4.7 from 22 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in this decadent Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake, a delightful twist on classic French toast. Layers of French bread, fresh strawberries, and creamy cream cheese, soaked in a sweet custard mixture, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a special brunch or breakfast treat!

Ingredients

Scale

French Toast Bake:

1 loaf French bread (cut into 1-inch cubes, about 10 cups)
1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced)
8 oz cream cheese (cubed)

Custard Mixture:

6 large eggs
1 1/2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Optional Toppings:

Powdered sugar for serving
Maple syrup for serving

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Instructions

Grease the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer Ingredients: Spread half of the bread cubes, then layer with half of the strawberries and all of the cream cheese cubes. Top with remaining bread and strawberries.
Prepare Custard: Whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. Pour over the bread layers, ensuring all bread is soaked.
Chill and Bake: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Bake at 350°F (175°C) covered for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until golden and set.
Serve: Let cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar, and serve with maple syrup.

Notes

You can use frozen strawberries (thawed and drained) if fresh are not available.
For a sweeter version, consider adding a strawberry glaze or extra syrup on top.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American