If you are searching for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug and tastes like pure bliss, the Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine luscious cubes of brioche soaked in a dreamy custard infused with vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, layered with fresh strawberries and cream cheese, then baked to golden perfection. The luscious strawberry topping adds a sweet, tangy finish that elevates this dish from ordinary to unforgettable, making each bite a celebration of flavors and textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each playing a vital role in building layers of flavor and richness. From the creamy custard base to the fresh strawberries brightening every bite, you’ll find that these ingredients are as accessible as they are essential.
- Brioche or Challah bread: The star structural ingredient, perfect for soaking up custard without falling apart.
- Fresh strawberries: Provide bright fruity sweetness and a gorgeous pop of color.
- Cream cheese: Adds a luscious, tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness.
- Eggs: Form the rich custard that binds it all together with a silky texture.
- Milk and heavy cream: Create a velvety custard base that’s indulgent but balanced.
- Granulated and brown sugar: Offer sweetness with a touch of caramel depth.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic note that lifts the whole dish.
- Cinnamon and nutmeg: Introduce cozy spice flavors with subtle warmth.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the strawberry topping with a fresh zing.
- Powdered sugar and maple syrup: Delicious finishing touches that make every bite a treat.
How to Make Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish and Layer the Base
Start by greasing your 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure that none of the luscious baked French toast sticks. Then, layer half of your cube-cut brioche evenly, followed by half the fresh sliced strawberries and half the softened cream cheese cubes. Repeat these layers again — this structured layering helps the strawberries and cream cheese melt into the custard and bread for bursts of flavor.
Step 2: Whisk Together Your Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything until smooth and combined, making a rich custard that will soak into the bread cubes, marrying all the flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Pour Custard and Chill
Pour your custard evenly over the layered bread, strawberries, and cream cheese mixture. Press down gently to help the custard seep into every nook and cranny. If you have time, cover the dish and refrigerate for at least one hour or, better yet, overnight. This soaking step creates an ultra-creamy texture and allows the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Set
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes to let the custard cook through. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes until the top is puffed, golden, and set in the center—that perfect golden crust is the hallmark of this Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe.
Step 5: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
While your French toast bakes, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Simmer gently for 5 to 8 minutes until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture becomes slightly thick and syrupy — this topping adds a fresh yet luscious burst of flavor when spooned over the bake.
Step 6: Serve with Style and Swoon
Dust your French toast with powdered sugar for a pretty finish. Spoon warm strawberry topping generously over each slice, drizzle with maple syrup, and if you’re feeling a little decadent, add a dollop of whipped cream. Every forkful is a blend of creamy, sweet, tangy, and warmly spiced sensations!
How to Serve Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes enhance both flavor and appearance. Sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar for a snow-kissed look or add a few halved strawberries for brightness. A light dusting of cinnamon or a small sprig of fresh mint can elevate the presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or fresh fruit salad if you want balance. For a bit of crunch contrast, crispy bacon or sausage links also make excellent savory companions to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this French toast in individual ramekins to create personalized portions. You could also layer it parfait-style with whipped cream and berries in glass cups for a brunch-worthy presentation that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe keeps well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
This baked French toast freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead option. Freeze individual portions by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months so you can enjoy a convenient, indulgent breakfast anytime.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or thawed portions in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method keeps the exterior crisp while warming the creamy custard interior. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain texture, though it works in a pinch!
FAQs
Can I use bread other than brioche or challah?
Absolutely! While brioche and challah are ideal for their rich texture and bread-y flavor, you can use any sturdy bread like French bread, sourdough, or even thick-cut sandwich bread. Just aim for day-old or slightly stale bread so it soaks up the custard without turning mushy.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the milk, cream, and cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk and vegan cream cheese. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will vary slightly but the essence of this baked French toast will still shine through.
Is it possible to add more fruit to the custard layers?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other fresh or frozen berries, diced peaches, or even apples for a fruity twist. Just consider the moisture content and adjust custard soaking time slightly if using particularly juicy fruit.
What makes this recipe different from traditional French toast?
Unlike pan-cooked slices, this Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe is baked to create a custardy, souffle-like texture with luscious layers of cream cheese and fresh fruit throughout. Baking also allows for an even soak and a golden crust all around.
Can I prepare this recipe the morning of serving?
Yes, but for the creamiest, most flavorful outcome, prepping it the night before and letting it soak in the fridge is best. If short on time, you can let it soak at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking, though the texture will be slightly less custardy.
Final Thoughts
Making the Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe is like creating a little breakfast masterpiece that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re treating yourself on a slow weekend or impressing company with your brunch skills, this dish promises decadence with every forkful. Give it a try — I have a feeling it’ll quickly become one of your favorite morning traditions!
Print
Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling optional)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast is a luscious breakfast or brunch treat featuring layers of brioche soaked in a rich custard infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, dotted with cream cheese and fresh strawberries. Baked to golden perfection and topped with a warm strawberry compote, powdered sugar, maple syrup, and optional whipped cream, it offers a creamy, fruity, and indulgent start to your day.
Ingredients
French Toast Base
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into cubes
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- â…“ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Strawberry Topping
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
For Serving
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Fresh strawberries
- Whipped cream (optional but recommended)
Instructions
- Prep the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly. Spread half the bread cubes evenly across the dish’s bottom. Evenly scatter half the sliced strawberries and half the cubed cream cheese over the bread layer. Repeat these layers using the remaining ingredients to create a double-layered effect.
- Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until fully combined. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the layered bread, strawberries, and cream cheese. Press down gently with a spatula or your hands to ensure all bread cubes soak up the custard well.
- Chill (Optional but Recommended): Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible. This step enhances the custard’s absorption for an ultra-creamy and cohesive bake.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator and cover it with foil. Bake for 30 minutes to gently cook the custard. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the French toast is puffed up, golden brown on top, and set in the center.
- Make the Strawberry Topping: While the French toast bakes, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture becomes slightly syrupy.
- Serve: Once baked, dust the French toast generously with powdered sugar. Spoon warm strawberry topping over each serving, drizzle with maple syrup, and add fresh strawberries and whipped cream if desired for an indulgent finish.
Notes
- Day-old bread works best as it absorbs the custard without becoming overly soggy.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle sliced almonds or a brown sugar crumble over the top before baking.
- Feel free to swap strawberries for mixed berries, peaches, or raspberries to vary the flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the custard mixture for a bright citrus twist.
- Refrigerating overnight is optional but greatly improves the texture and flavor depth.
