Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast: A Decadent Breakfast Delight

Imagine waking up to the aroma of warm brioche bread, sweet strawberries, and creamy goodness wafting from your kitchen. There’s nothing quite like baked strawberries and cream French toast to make your mornings special. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or treating your family to a memorable breakfast, this dish is the perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked strawberries and cream French toast combines the soft, custardy texture of bread pudding with the bright, juicy flavor of fresh strawberries. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, so you can enjoy your morning without feeling rushed. Plus, it’s an instant crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients for Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

Category	Ingredients
Main Ingredients	1 (16-ounce) loaf brioche bread, cubed
	1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, cubed
	1 pound strawberries, diced and divided
Custard Mixture	12 large eggs, beaten
	2 cups whole milk
	⅓ cup maple syrup
	1 teaspoon vanilla extract
	½ teaspoon kosher salt
For Garnish	1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast

1. Prepare the Baking Dish

• Lightly coat a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray.

2. Layer the Ingredients

• Spread half of the cubed brioche bread evenly into the prepared dish.
• Top with the cubed cream cheese and half the diced strawberries.
• Add the remaining bread cubes on top to completely cover the filling.

3. Make the Custard

• In a large mixing bowl or glass measuring cup, whisk together the beaten eggs, whole milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and kosher salt until fully combined.

4. Combine and Chill

• Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring every piece is soaked.
• Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the custard.

5. Bake the French Toast

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes.
• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
• Uncover and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is firm.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle the remaining strawberries and a dusting of confectioners’ sugar over the baked French toast before serving.
• Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, creamy, and sweet flavors in every bite.

What Makes This Recipe Special

1. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family breakfast or a holiday brunch, this dish fits the bill.
2. Make-Ahead Convenience: Assemble the night before and bake in the morning for a stress-free start to your day.
3. Balanced Flavors: The creamy custard, sweet strawberries, and buttery brioche create a harmonious blend of flavors.
4. Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce to create something extraordinary.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~320 kcal
Protein	12g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	14g
Sugars	22g
Fiber	2g

Tips for the Perfect Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast

1. Use Stale Bread: Slightly stale brioche works best as it absorbs the custard more effectively.
2. Fresh vs. Frozen Strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide the best texture, but you can use frozen ones in a pinch—just thaw and drain them first.
3. Cut Evenly: Cube the bread and cream cheese uniformly for consistent layers and even baking.
4. Don’t Skip the Chill Time: Refrigerating the dish ensures the bread soaks up the custard, creating a creamy interior.
5. Test for Doneness: Insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, your French toast is ready.

Serving Ideas for Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast

Elevate your dish with these creative serving ideas:

• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of homemade whipped cream for extra decadence.
• Extra Maple Syrup: Drizzle more maple syrup over the top for added sweetness.
• Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds for a delightful crunch.
• Chocolate Chips: For a dessert-like twist, add a handful of chocolate chips before baking.

Variations to Try

1. Berry Medley French Toast

Swap some of the strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a colorful berry medley.

2. Citrus-Infused Custard

Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the custard for a fresh, citrusy kick.

3. Vegan Version

Use plant-based milk, egg substitutes, and dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan-friendly version.

4. Nutty French Toast

Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the bread layers for added texture and flavor.

FAQs About Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast

1. Can I use other types of bread?
Yes, you can substitute brioche with challah, French bread, or even croissants for a slightly different texture and flavor.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

3. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Once baked, let it cool completely, then freeze individual portions. Reheat directly from frozen at 350°F until warmed through.

4. Can I use low-fat milk?
Whole milk provides the best creaminess, but you can use low-fat milk if you prefer a lighter option.

5. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Mascarpone or ricotta cheese makes a great substitute for cream cheese in this recipe.

6. Is it okay to add more fruit?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like peaches, bananas, or even dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.

Conclusion: Treat Yourself to Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast

Baked strawberries and cream French toast is more than just a breakfast—it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and togetherness. This easy yet impressive dish will bring smiles to your table, whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a festive holiday brunch. Ready to give it a try? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor the magic of homemade goodness.

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