Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast is a decadent breakfast that feels like a dessert but is still perfect for starting your day. The rich and creamy cheesecake filling, combined with fresh strawberries and crispy, golden-brown French toast, makes for an irresistible treat. Whether you’re preparing a special brunch or just want to indulge in something sweet, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cream cheese
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Fresh strawberries
Thick slices of bread (such as brioche or challah)
Eggs
Milk
Cinnamon
Sugar
Butter
Maple syrup (optional, for serving)
Whipped cream (optional, for serving)

Directions

In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Chop fresh strawberries and fold them into the cream cheese mixture.
Slice each piece of bread and create a pocket in the center.
Stuff each slice of bread with the strawberry cheesecake mixture.
In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and sugar.
Dip each stuffed bread slice into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Cook the stuffed French toast for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve warm with maple syrup, whipped cream, and additional fresh strawberries if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling for an extra indulgent twist.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans on top for added texture.
Berry Mix: Use a combination of blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries for a more vibrant fruit filling.
Savory Twist: Skip the sugar in the filling and add a bit of mascarpone cheese for a more sophisticated flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover stuffed French toast in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
Freezing: Freeze individual slices on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 375°F for about 15 minutes.

FAQs

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Make sure to seal the bread pocket well and avoid overstuffing it.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes! Brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best due to their thickness and softness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling the night before and assemble the French toast just before cooking.

Is there a dairy-free alternative?

Use dairy-free cream cheese and almond or oat milk for a lactose-free version.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

What’s the best way to get an even golden-brown crust?

Cook on medium heat and use butter to ensure even browning.

Can I bake this instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I make this extra crispy?

Dip the stuffed toast in crushed cornflakes before cooking for added crunch.

What other fillings can I try?

Try peanut butter and bananas, Nutella and raspberries, or even a cinnamon apple mixture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free bread and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast is the ultimate breakfast treat that brings together the richness of cheesecake and the comfort of classic French toast. With its creamy filling, juicy strawberries, and crispy exterior, this dish is bound to be a hit for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a weekend brunch or a special morning surprise, it’s a recipe worth savoring!