Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast

Elevate your breakfast or brunch with this indulgent Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast. Combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, juicy flavors of fresh strawberries, this dish turns a classic favorite into a decadent treat. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this French toast is sure to impress and satisfy.

Ingredients:

For the French Toast:

• 8 slices of thick-cut bread (brioche or challah work best)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Butter, for greasing the pan

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

For the Strawberry Topping:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For Garnish:

• Powdered sugar
• Fresh strawberries
• Maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

1. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Strawberry Topping:

1. Macerate the Strawberries:
   • In a small bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir gently to coat the strawberries and set aside. The sugar will draw out the juices, creating a sweet syrupy topping.

3. Assemble the French Toast:

1. Stuff the Bread:
   • Take 4 slices of bread and spread a generous amount of the cheesecake filling on each. Top with the remaining 4 slices of bread to make 4 sandwiches.

4. Prepare the Egg Mixture:

1. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

5. Cook the French Toast:

1. Dip the Sandwiches:
   • Dip each stuffed sandwich into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are fully coated. Allow the bread to soak up the mixture for a few seconds.
2. Cook on the Griddle:
   • Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a pat of butter. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, place the soaked sandwiches onto the griddle.
3. Cook Until Golden:
   • Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. If the bread browns too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.

6. Serve the French Toast:

1. Plate the French Toast:
   • Place the cooked French toast on plates and top with the macerated strawberries and their juices.
2. Add Garnishes:
   • Dust with powdered sugar, add a few fresh strawberries for garnish, and drizzle with maple syrup if desired.

7. Enjoy:

1. Indulge:
   • Serve immediately while the French toast is warm and the filling is creamy. Enjoy the delightful combination of creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberries, and crispy French toast.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast is the perfect way to turn an ordinary breakfast into something extraordinary. The creamy cheesecake filling paired with the sweet and tangy strawberries creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will delight your taste buds. This dish is perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch, a special occasion, or any time you want to treat yourself to something truly decadent. Serve it with a cup of coffee or a glass of freshly squeezed juice, and enjoy a breakfast that feels like dessert!