Baked Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast

There’s something magical about brunching on a lazy Sunday morning with a plate of Baked Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast. Picture it: golden slices of challah bread stuffed with creamy cream cheese and sweet strawberry jam, all baked to perfection. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; the intoxicating aroma of fresh strawberries and warm bread filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in like a siren’s song. They gathered around the table, and the moment I set the platter down, their eyes lit up with excitement. Each bite was a celebration of flavors, rich and creamy with a hint of berry sweetness. It’s become a staple in our household, evoking fond memories every time I whip it up.

Ingredients to Make Baked Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast

When I think about what makes the best Baked Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast, it all comes down to the quality and combination of the ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The key players here are the rich cream cheese, sweet strawberry jam, and the fluffy challah bread. Their synergy is what makes this dish irresistible.

• 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 loaf challah bread, sliced into 1 1/2 inch thick slices
• 1 jar (10 ounces) strawberry jam
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 4 tablespoons salted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• kosher salt
• maple syrup, for serving
• 2 cups fresh strawberries
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice

How to Prepare Baked Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast

Making Baked Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with delicious aromas. Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll have a warm, comforting dish to share with loved ones. Here’s how to do it!

1. Start by greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. This ensures that the French toast doesn’t stick and makes for easy serving later on. The butter will also add a rich flavor.
2. Now, take the cream cheese and whip it in a bowl until it’s fluffy, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll want it to be light and airy, perfect for spreading.
3. Next, slice each piece of bread in half. Be careful not to cut all the way through; leave a little hinge at the bottom. This will create a pocket for your delicious filling.
4. Spread the inside of the bread with the whipped cream cheese and then add a generous layer of strawberry jam. Close the bread to enclose the filling. You only need about two-thirds of the jam for this step.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla, and a pinch of kosher salt. This mixture is what will soak into the bread and create that custardy texture.
6. Submerge each stuffed piece of bread into the egg mixture. Let them sit for at least a minute to soak up the egg mixture. This step is crucial for moist and flavorful French toast!
7. Arrange the soaked bread in the greased baking dish. Pour the remaining egg mixture over the top, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Cover with plastic wrap and place the dish in the fridge for 30 minutes or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld.
8. When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375° F. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes to allow the bread to firm up.
9. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes. The top should be golden brown, indicating that it’s cooked through.
10. While the French toast is finishing up, toss the fresh strawberries with honey and lemon juice in a bowl. This will create a fresh, zesty topping to brighten the dish.
11. Finally, serve the Baked Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast warm, topped with whipped cream, the strawberry mixture, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy every bite!

Tips and Tricks about Baked Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast

When it comes to perfecting your Baked Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast, a few handy tips can make a significant difference in the outcome. Here are some insights!

• Storage: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container. Consume within three days for the best taste.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled but uncooked French toast for up to a month. Simply thaw and bake as directed.
• Pairing: Serve this dish alongside crispy bacon or fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal.
• Serving Size: This recipe serves six, making it perfect for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts.
• Garnishing: Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream on top for that extra touch of elegance.

Perfect Matches for Baked Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast

Pairing your Baked Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal. Here are some ideas:

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can complement the sweetness of the French toast.
• Yogurt: Serve with a side of creamy Greek yogurt for a protein boost that balances the sweetness.
• Hot Beverages: Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or tea to create a cozy brunch atmosphere.
• Maple Syrup: Always have extra maple syrup on hand for drizzling over your French toast.
• Great for Special Occasions: This dish is perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any gathering where you want to impress.
• Storage Tips: Any leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, making them perfect for quick breakfasts.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Baked Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast is a dish that brings smiles to the breakfast table with its delightful flavors and textures. Whether you’re enjoying it on a special occasion or just treating yourself on a weekend, it’s a recipe that never disappoints. I encourage you to try making it soon; your loved ones will thank you for it!

Baked Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast

The ultimate comfort food, Baked Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast is a warm, creamy delight that will have you coming back for seconds. Featuring rich cream cheese and sweet strawberry jam, it’s an easy weeknight breakfast that everyone will love. Make it tonight and indulge!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 8 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
• 1 loaf challah bread sliced into 1 1/2 inch thick slices
• 1 jar strawberry jam (10 ounces)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 4 tablespoons salted butter melted
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• kosher salt
• maple syrup for serving
• 2 cups fresh strawberries
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice

Equipment

• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Start by greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. This ensures that the French toast doesn’t stick and makes for easy serving later on. The butter will also add a rich flavor.
2. Now, take the cream cheese and whip it in a bowl until it’s fluffy, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. You'll want it to be light and airy, perfect for spreading.
3. Next, slice each piece of bread in half. Be careful not to cut all the way through; leave a little hinge at the bottom. This will create a pocket for your delicious filling.
4. Spread the inside of the bread with the whipped cream cheese and then add a generous layer of strawberry jam. Close the bread to enclose the filling. You only need about two-thirds of the jam for this step.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla, and a pinch of kosher salt. This mixture is what will soak into the bread and create that custardy texture.
6. Submerge each stuffed piece of bread into the egg mixture. Let them sit for at least a minute to soak up the egg mixture. This step is crucial for moist and flavorful French toast!
7. Arrange the soaked bread in the greased baking dish. Pour the remaining egg mixture over the top, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Cover with plastic wrap and place the dish in the fridge for 30 minutes or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld.
8. When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375° F. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes to allow the bread to firm up.
9. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes. The top should be golden brown, indicating that it's cooked through.
10. While the French toast is finishing up, toss the fresh strawberries with honey and lemon juice in a bowl. This will create a fresh, zesty topping to brighten the dish.
11. Finally, serve the Baked Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast warm, topped with whipped cream, the strawberry mixture, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy every bite!

Notes

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container. Consume within three days for the best taste. You can freeze the assembled but uncooked French toast for up to a month. Simply thaw and bake as directed. Serve with a refreshing mix of seasonal fruits for a balanced meal. This recipe serves six, making it perfect for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts.

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Meet Hailey Anderson

My passion is creating food that nourishes your body without sacrificing flavor. I’m our main recipe developer for vibrant salads, smoothies, and feel-good breakfasts. When I’m not blending or chopping, I’m right alongside Brooke and Jenna, helping to cook and test our new dinner and dessert recipes. I’m a firm believer in balance!