Name: Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons St. Germain; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 6-8 small day-old croissants; 8 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature); 1/3 cup high quality strawberry jam; 3 tablespoons melted salted butter; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons real maple syrup; 1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced horizontally); whipped cream and maple syrup (for serving)

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There’s something truly magical about waking up to the aroma of freshly baked goodies wafting through the house, and that’s exactly what happens when you make Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast. Recently, I had a lovely brunch gathering with friends, and I wanted to create something special that would impress them. I decided to whip up this delightful dish, and let me tell you, it was an absolute hit. The combination of soft, buttery croissants filled with a luscious strawberry and cream cheese mixture makes each bite a heavenly experience. As we sat around the table, laughter, and chatter filled the air, while everyone savored the crispy edges and creamy interiors of this unique twist on French toast. It reminded me of lazy weekends spent with loved ones, where comfort food and good company come together in perfect harmony.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
9 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

The Magic of This Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast

Why You’ll Love It

There are countless reasons to adore Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast. Here are just a few that stand out:

Heavenly Flavor Combination

This recipe brings together fresh strawberries and rich cream cheese inside buttery croissants, creating an explosion of flavors. The sweetness from the strawberries perfectly complements the creamy texture of the cheese, making each bite utterly delightful.

Impressive Yet Simple

Despite its fancy appearance, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare. You can have it ready in no time, allowing you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s the perfect brunch option for any occasion.

Perfect for Any Season

Whether it’s spring or summer, the vibrant colors of the strawberries and the lightness of the dish make it suitable year-round. It’s a refreshing option for those warmer days when you’re looking for something delicious yet not too heavy.

Make-Ahead Convenience

One fantastic aspect of this recipe is its make-ahead capability. You can prepare it the night before and let it rest in the fridge. When you wake up, all you have to do is pop it in the oven, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free morning.

Great for Celebrations

From birthdays to brunches, this dish is perfect for any gathering. Its stunning presentation is sure to wow your guests, making it a go-to recipe for special occasions.

Customization Options

You can easily customize this recipe by adding other fruits or flavorings. Whether you want to swap strawberries for blueberries or add a hint of citrus zest, the options are endless. This flexibility allows you to make it your own!

Ingredients for Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast

When it comes to crafting the perfect Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast, the ingredients play a significant role in creating that harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Each component is carefully chosen to enhance the overall dish, making it a delightful experience from the first bite. Here are the key players in this recipe:

4 large eggs, beaten – The foundation of our custard mix, providing richness and binding all flavors together.
1 cup whole milk – Adds creaminess to the custard and helps achieve the perfect texture.
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses a sweet, aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish.
3 tablespoons St. Germain – This elderflower liquor adds a unique floral note (optional but recommended).
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
6-8 small day-old croissants – The star ingredient, providing flakiness and a buttery taste that’s simply irresistible.
8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature – Creates a luscious filling that melts beautifully inside the croissant.
1/3 cup high-quality strawberry jam – Sweetens the filling and adds a burst of strawberry flavor.
3 tablespoons melted salted butter, plus more for the pan – Ensures a crispy, golden exterior while enhancing the buttery flavor.
2 tablespoons brown sugar – Provides a hint of caramel flavor that complements the croissants.
2 tablespoons real maple syrup – A natural sweetener that adds depth and complexity to the dish.
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced horizontally – Fresh fruit adds brightness and texture, making it feel light and fresh.
Whipped cream and maple syrup, for serving – The perfect finishing touch, adding a creamy element and extra sweetness.

How to Cook Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast

Cooking Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. You’ll find that each step is simple yet rewarding, leading to a stunning dish that’s perfect for sharing. Let’s dive into the steps!

Preheat the oven to 375° F. Grease a baking sheet with butter to prevent the croissants from sticking and to enhance their golden color as they bake.
In a large shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, St. Germain, 1 tablespoon vanilla, and salt. This will be your custard mixture, and whisking ensures everything is well combined and airy.
Grab the croissants and make a 1-inch slit at the top of each. Carefully create space inside without cutting through the other sides. This will be where you spoon in the delicious filling.
In a bowl, gently stir together the cream cheese and strawberry jam. Leave some streaks of red and white for visual appeal. Spoon the mixture into a ziplock bag, snip the corner, and use it to fill each croissant with about 2 tablespoons of the strawberry cream.
Dip each filled croissant into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for about 1 minute per side. This step is crucial for flavor and texture, so don’t rush it. Arrange half the croissants on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush each croissant with the leftover egg batter. This will help achieve a beautiful golden color during baking. Bake the croissants for 20 to 25 minutes or until they become golden and puffy.
While the croissants bake, melt together the butter, brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons maple syrup in a small saucepan. Once melted, spoon the mixture evenly over each croissant, adding a sweet, caramelized layer on top.
Return the croissants to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until they are caramelized on top and crisped up nicely.
In a separate bowl, toss the fresh strawberries with 1 tablespoon St. Germain, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and 1 tablespoon maple syrup. This will enhance their flavor and make them a beautiful topping for your dish.
Serve the Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast warm, topped with whipped cream, berries, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy each decadent bite!

Things Worth Knowing

Use Day-Old Croissants: Older croissants provide the best texture for French toast. They absorb the custard without falling apart.
Don’t Skip the Soaking: Allowing the croissants to soak in the custard mixture ensures they will be flavorful and soft on the inside.
Temperature Check: Make sure the croissants are golden and caramelized before taking them out of the oven; this adds crunch and depth of flavor.
Serving Temperature: This dish is best served warm. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

Making Adjustments

While the Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast is delicious as is, you might want to experiment a bit! Here are some great tips to consider:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze the baked croissants for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them tightly. Reheat in the oven from frozen.
Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing mint tea or a smoothie for a complete brunch experience.
Variations: Feel free to swap out strawberries for other fruits like raspberries or peaches. You can also add nuts or chocolate chips into the filling for extra flavor!

Perfect Pairings for Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast

When it comes to serving the Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delightful options to consider:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing side of mixed berries or citrus fruits complements the sweetness of the croissants beautifully.
Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruits can add a nice crunch and a creamy contrast.
Light Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the dish.
Seasonal Beverages: Serve this dish with a glass of fresh juice, iced tea, or a light cocktail for a festive brunch.
Brunch Gatherings: This recipe is perfect for celebrations such as birthdays, bridal showers, or holiday brunches.
Storage Tips: If you’re making this ahead of time, prepare the dish until just before baking and refrigerate overnight. This will allow the flavors to meld!

FAQ

Absolutely! One of the best features of this dish is its make-ahead capability. You can complete the recipe through step 5 and then cover it and place it in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply let it sit on the counter while the oven preheats, then follow the remaining steps to bake it. This way, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast without the morning fuss!

For a well-rounded breakfast or brunch, consider serving Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast with a refreshing fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait. You could also add a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a savory counterpoint. Lastly, don’t forget a good cup of coffee or a fresh juice to complement the sweet flavors of the dish!

Definitely! While strawberries are a classic choice for this recipe, you can easily swap them out for other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches. The key is to choose fruits that complement the cream cheese filling. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly, depending on the fruit you select!

To store leftovers of your Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, the best method is to warm them in the oven for a few minutes until they are heated through and regain that lovely crispy texture.

Conclusion

Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast is truly a delightful and comforting dish that brings together the amazing flavors of fresh strawberries and creamy filling, all within buttery croissants. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also creates cherished moments with family and friends. I encourage you to try making it for your next brunch or special gathering. You won’t regret the smiles and compliments that will surely follow!