Imagine: Golden, custardy Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French toast oozing with luscious strawberry cheesecake filling, topped with fresh berries and powdered sugar. This isn’t just breakfast – it’s a special occasion-worthy treat that’s:
Faster than baking a cheesecake (just 25 mins!)
Easier than traditional stuffed French toast (no slicing pockets!)
Perfect for impressing guests (or treating yourself!)
Pro Tip: I’ll show you 3 cooking methods (stovetop, oven, air fryer) and 4 flavor twists to keep it exciting!
Why This Recipe Wins
✅ No fancy skills needed (beginner-friendly steps)
✅ Make-ahead friendly (assemble night before)
✅ Customizable (use any berries or bread)
✅ Brunch showstopper (guests will beg for the recipe)
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
For the French Toast:
- 8 slices thick-cut brioche (or challah/croissants)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp butter
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup diced strawberries
- ½ tsp lemon zest
Toppings:
- Fresh strawberries
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Gently fold in diced strawberries.
2. Assemble the French Toast
- Spread 2 tbsp filling on one slice of bread.
- Top with another slice to make a sandwich.
- Repeat with remaining slices.
Pro Tip: Use slightly stale bread – it soaks up custard better without falling apart!
3. Cook to Perfection
Stovetop (Best for Crispy Edges):
- Whisk eggs, cream, vanilla, and cinnamon.
- Dip sandwiches for 20 seconds per side.
- Cook in buttered skillet over medium-low heat for 3-4 mins/side.
Oven (Best for Groups):
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 mins, flipping halfway.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Dust with powdered sugar.
- Top with fresh berries and syrup.
Pro Tips
Extra Crispy: Use air fryer at 350°F for 8-10 mins
Brighten Flavor: Add 1 tsp orange zest to filling
Overnight Version: Assemble night before; cook in AM
FAQ Section
What’s the most common French toast mistake?
Oversoaking the bread – it becomes soggy. Dip for only 20 seconds/side for perfect texture.
What does strawberry cheesecake taste like?
A balance of:
• Tangy cream cheese
• Sweet strawberries
• Buttery, crisp exterior (from French toast)
Fun fact about French toast?
It dates back to 4th-century Rome! Called “Pan Dulcis,” it was a way to use stale bread.
How to keep French toast from sinking?
• Use thick-cut bread (brioche/challah)
• Don’t oversoak
• Cook on medium-low heat (not high)
Why is French toast soggy?
• Bread too fresh (stale works better)
• Too much custard
• Undercooking (should be golden brown)
Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast
Ingredients
- 8 slices brioche bread
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup diced strawberries
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Make filling: Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and lemon zest. Fold in strawberries.
- Assemble sandwiches with 2 tbsp filling between bread slices.
- Whisk eggs, cream, vanilla, and cinnamon. Dip sandwiches 20 seconds per side.
- Cook in buttered skillet 3-4 mins/side until golden. Serve with berries and syrup.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast is your ticket to:
• Effortless brunch magic
• Valentine’s Day/anniversary breakfasts
• “I deserve something special” mornings
Made it? contact me on [email protected] – I’ll share your creation!