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Decadent Valentine’s Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast

Valentine’s Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast - featured image
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A rich and indulgent French toast recipe featuring a creamy cheesecake filling and fresh strawberries, perfect for special occasions or a luxurious breakfast treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 thick slices brioche or challah bread (about 1-inch thick)
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened (full-fat preferred)
  • 1 cup (150 g) fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar (plus 1 tbsp for cream cheese filling)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, for frying
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
  • Maple syrup, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cream cheese filling: In a mixing bowl, beat 8 oz softened cream cheese with 1 tbsp granulated sugar until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes using a hand mixer. Set aside.
  2. Slice the bread and strawberries: Cut 8 thick slices of brioche or challah (about 1-inch thick). Then, slice 1 cup fresh strawberries thinly for layering.
  3. Assemble the sandwiches: Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture over 4 slices of bread. Top each with a handful of sliced strawberries. Place the remaining 4 slices on top to form sandwiches. Press gently so they stick together but don’t squish the filling.
  4. Make the custard: In a shallow dish, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup whole milk, 1 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and ½ tsp ground cinnamon until well combined.
  5. Soak the sandwiches: Carefully dip each sandwich in the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for about 20-30 seconds per side. Don’t over-soak or the bread will get soggy and fall apart.
  6. Heat the skillet: Melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter in a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once the butter is foamy and sizzling, add the soaked sandwiches.
  7. Cook the French toast: Cook each sandwich for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crisp. Adjust heat as needed to avoid burning while ensuring the filling warms through.
  8. Serve: Remove from heat and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm with extra strawberries and maple syrup on the side.

Notes

Use thick-cut brioche or challah bread for best results. Soften cream cheese before mixing for a silky smooth filling. Do not over-soak the bread in custard to prevent sogginess. Cook over medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning. Optional toppings include powdered sugar, maple syrup, and extra fresh strawberries. For dairy-free or gluten-free versions, substitute ingredients accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast, strawberry, cheesecake, breakfast, Valentine’s Day, brunch, creamy, dessert breakfast

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/decadent-valentines-strawberry-cheesecake-french-toast-recipe-easy-and-perfect-for-breakfast/