If you’re craving a show-stopping breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast Bake Recipe is your new go-to. This dish brilliantly combines sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors with a light, custardy texture that everyone will adore. Imagine layers of soft brioche bread loaded with luscious cream cheese and fresh strawberries, all soaked in a rich custard before baking to golden perfection. It’s perfect for lazy weekend mornings, holiday brunches, or any time you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something extra special and comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to making this dish irresistible. Each component plays a vital role in bringing out the perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and texture that defines this French toast bake.
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread: Choose a fluffy, slightly sweet bread that soaks up custard without falling apart.
- 8 oz cream cheese (cubed): Adds a tangy creaminess that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of strawberries.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced): Provide juicy bursts of freshness and vibrant color.
- 6 large eggs: The backbone of the custard, giving structure and richness.
- 1 ¾ cups whole milk: Keeps the custard smooth and creamy.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Intensifies richness for that indulgent texture.
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens just enough without overpowering.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic note that complements all flavors.
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle spice that lifts the taste perfectly.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Powdered sugar and maple syrup for serving: Optional finishing touches for an extra layer of sweetness and charm.
How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Filling
Start by greasing your 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread half of your bread cubes evenly on the bottom. Then, scatter the cream cheese cubes and half of the sliced strawberries over this bread layer. Next, add the remaining bread cubes and top them with the rest of the strawberries. This layering traps pockets of cream cheese and fruit throughout the bake, creating delightful surprises in every bite.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until everything is smoothly combined. This custard mixture will soak into the bread cubes, transforming them into a rich, tender base for your bake.
Step 3: Soak and Chill
Pour the custard evenly over the layered bread and fruit in your baking dish. Press gently to help the liquid soak through all the bread cubes. Cover the dish tightly with foil and refrigerate overnight or for at least four hours. This soaking step is crucial—it lets every piece absorb that custardy goodness, making your bake moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
When you’re ready, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the foil and bake the dish for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top turns beautifully golden and the center is set. The aroma filling your kitchen will be nothing short of heavenly! Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving so it sets nicely and is easier to slice.
How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty finish and a touch of sweetness, while a generous drizzle of warm maple syrup brings everything together with its rich, caramel notes. Fresh strawberries on top not only boost the color but also echo the fruity flavor inside.
Side Dishes
This bake pairs wonderfully with crispy bacon or sausage for a salty contrast. A simple bowl of fresh fruit or a cup of yogurt works for a lighter, refreshing balance. You can even add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive brunch, slice into squares and serve on individual plates with a small berry salad on the side. You can also create mini versions using muffin tins for individual servings that look adorable and make serving a breeze. Layering in a swirl of strawberry jam before baking offers an additional pop of sweetness and color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making tasty breakfasts or snacks for days after your initial bake.
Freezing
This French toast bake freezes beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place them in freezer bags. When you want a quick meal, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm as needed.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your portion into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp around the edges. You can also microwave it for a quicker option, but the oven method preserves the texture best.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make your bake soggy. Frozen strawberries still provide great flavor and convenience.
Is brioche necessary or can I use another bread?
Brioche or challah is preferred because of their soft, slightly sweet qualities, but you could substitute with other thick, sturdy breads like a good-quality white bread or French bread if needed.
Can I prepare this dish the same day I want to eat it?
While it’s possible, letting the bake soak overnight yields a much better texture and flavor. If you’re short on time, try soaking it for at least 4 hours to help the custard absorb well.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can replace heavy cream with an equal amount of whole milk or half-and-half, though the bake may be slightly less rich. It will still be delicious and satisfying!
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and using plant-based milk and cream substitutes, you can adapt this bake to fit dairy-free diets, though the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about the Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast Bake Recipe that brings warmth and joy to any breakfast table. It’s a wonderful way to show yourself and your family some love without too much fuss, and it’s guaranteed to impress. So grab that loaf of brioche, some fresh strawberries, and get ready to make mornings deliciously unforgettable!
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Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (active)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast Bake is a perfect make-ahead breakfast or brunch dish featuring layers of brioche bread, creamy cream cheese, and fresh strawberries soaked in a rich custard. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with powdered sugar and maple syrup.
Ingredients
Bread and Fruit
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1 ¾ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For Serving
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Layer Bread and Fillings: Spread half of the brioche or challah bread cubes evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish. Scatter the cubed cream cheese and half of the sliced strawberries over this first layer of bread. Then, add the remaining bread cubes followed by the remaining strawberries, creating layered texture and flavor.
- Make Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and strawberries in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the custard evenly, ensuring a custardy inside.
- Refrigerate: Cover the dish tightly with foil and refrigerate overnight or for a minimum of 4 hours. This resting period allows the bread to soak thoroughly, developing rich flavor and texture.
- Bake: When ready, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the foil from the baking dish and bake the French toast casserole for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set without being jiggly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bake to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup for a perfect finishing touch.
Notes
- Frozen strawberries can be used if fresh are unavailable; just thaw and drain excess liquid before layering.
- For extra strawberry flavor, add a layer of strawberry jam between bread layers.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator and can be reheated in the oven or microwave for convenience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
