Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast

• 8 slices thick bread
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Butter for frying
• Powdered sugar for garnish
• Maple syrup for serving

Steps

1. 1 In a bowl, mix cream cheese, 1/2 cup strawberries, and sugar until smooth.
2. 2 Lay out 4 slices of bread. Spread each with an even layer of the cream cheese mixture and top with remaining diced strawberries.
3. 3 Top each with a second slice of bread to make four sandwiches.
4. 4 Whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon in a shallow dish.
5. 5 Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, coating both sides.
6. 6 Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter. Cook sandwiches until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. 7 Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with maple syrup.

Equipment

• Skillet
• Spatula

Variations

• Add a dash of nutmeg to the egg mixture for extra warmth.
• Use blueberry or raspberry preserves instead of fresh strawberries.

Substitutions

• If you don't have cream cheese, substitute with mascarpone for a richer flavor.

Pairings

• Bacon or sausage on the side.
• A glass of orange juice complements the strawberries beautifully.

Nutrition

Tips

• For a make-ahead option, prepare the stuffed sandwiches up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
• Use day-old bread for the best texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster or oven to maintain crispiness.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a toaster oven for best results.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of fresh fruit salad.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

FAQ