Baked Strawberries And Cream French Toast is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that transports you to a cozy brunch setting with the warm sun streaming through the window. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a well-deserved weekend treat, this recipe brings together the sweetness of fresh strawberries and the rich creaminess of custard-soaked bread, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The history of French toast dates back centuries, but the twist of baking it with strawberries and cream elevates this classic to a new level of decadence that everyone loves. When you serve Baked Strawberries And Cream French Toast, you’re not just offering a meal; you’re sharing a moment of joy and comfort that’s bound to leave lasting memories.
What Is Baked Strawberries And Cream French Toast
Baked Strawberries And Cream French Toast is a luscious breakfast dish that combines the traditional elements of French toast with a delightful baked twist. Instead of frying individual slices of bread, this recipe allows you to soak a whole loaf in a rich custard mixture, layered with succulent strawberries, and then bake it to perfection. The result is a fluffy, creamy texture that’s just as satisfying as a warm hug on a chilly morning. Unlike regular French toast, which can be a bit messy to prepare, this baked version is easy to assemble and yields a beautiful, golden finish that’s ready to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Easy to prepare: Just mix, layer, and bake!
- Deliciously sweet and creamy, perfect for satisfying your cravings.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore it.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make it the night before and bake it in the morning.
How Does It Taste?
The flavor profile of Baked Strawberries And Cream French Toast is truly heavenly. Imagine the sweetness of ripe strawberries perfectly balanced with a creamy custard, all enveloped in the warm embrace of toasted bread. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the soft, tender texture of the soaked bread and the juicy burst of fresh strawberries. It’s a dish that sings with notes of vanilla and a hint of cinnamon, making every forkful a celebration of flavors that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
This recipe boasts several key ingredients that contribute to its deliciousness and health benefits. Fresh strawberries are packed with vitamins C and K, providing a refreshing burst of flavor while supporting your immune system. Eggs, a fundamental component of the custard, are high in protein and essential nutrients, making this dish not only tasty but also nourishing. Whole grain bread can be used for added fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. Lastly, a splash of milk adds creaminess while offering calcium for strong bones. Together, these ingredients create a dish that feels indulgent but offers a wholesome start to your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 loaf of brioche bread – This soft, rich bread absorbs the custard beautifully, providing a fluffy texture.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries – Sliced and sweetened, they offer a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
- 4 large eggs – These are the base of the custard, giving it structure and richness.
- 2 cups whole milk – Adds creaminess to the custard mix; you can use almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile with a warm, sweet aroma.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a subtle warmth that complements the strawberries.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the custard and balances the tartness of the strawberries.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese – Cut into small cubes, it creates delicious creamy pockets within the French toast.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting) – Optional, for a sweet finishing touch when serving.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended)
- Knife (for slicing bread and strawberries)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts
- Spatula (for serving)
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- Dairy-free options: Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of whole milk and dairy-free cream cheese.
- Spice variations: Swap cinnamon for nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a different flavor profile.
- Fruit variations: Replace strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a seasonal twist.
- Sweetener alternatives: Honey or maple syrup can replace granulated sugar for a natural sweetener option.
How to Make Baked Strawberries And Cream French Toast
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by washing and slicing your fresh strawberries. Place them in a bowl and sprinkle with a tablespoon of sugar. Let them sit while you make the custard; this will draw out their juices and enhance their sweetness.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, crack the four eggs and whisk them until they are well-beaten. Gradually add the whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and the remaining sugar, whisking until combined and smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the French Toast
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish lightly. Begin by slicing the brioche bread into thick slices. Layer half of the bread slices in the baking dish, overlapping them slightly. Spread half of the cream cheese cubes evenly over the bread, followed by half of the sliced strawberries. Repeat this layering with the remaining bread, cream cheese, and strawberries.
Step 4: Add the Custard
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and strawberries, ensuring that all the bread is soaked. Use a spatula to gently press down any areas that appear dry. Allow it to sit for about 10-15 minutes to soak up the custard.
Step 5: Bake the French Toast
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and puffy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, and enjoy warm with a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
What to Serve With
This delightful Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast pairs wonderfully with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a savory touch. Fresh fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream can enhance the sweetness. For beverages, consider serving with freshly squeezed orange juice, coffee, or a light mimosa for brunch gatherings.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the bread is slightly stale or day-old for better absorption of the custard.
- Don’t skip the resting time; allowing the dish to sit helps the bread soak up the custard evenly.
- Experiment with different fruits to find your favorite combination.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens may vary, and you don’t want the French toast to dry out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using fresh bread instead of stale can lead to sogginess; always opt for slightly stale bread.
- Not letting the assembled dish rest long enough can result in uneven cooking.
- Overbaking can cause the French toast to dry out; monitor closely during the last few minutes.
- Skipping the cream cheese can lead to a loss of that creamy texture and flavor contrast.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for longer storage.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For microwave reheating, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds, but be cautious as this may affect texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I prepare this dish the night before? Yes! Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Just allow extra baking time in the morning.
- What if I don’t have brioche bread? You can substitute with challah or even thick slices of white bread; just ensure they are soft and fluffy.
- Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but thaw them and drain excess moisture before using to prevent sogginess.
- Is this dish suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! It holds well in the fridge and can be reheated for a quick breakfast.
Nutritional Info
This Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast serves approximately 8 and contains roughly 350 calories per serving, with about 15g of fat, 45g of carbohydrates, and 10g of protein. Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to elevate your breakfast game, then the Baked Strawberries And Cream French Toast is a must-try! This delightful dish combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the creamy richness that makes every bite feel like a special occasion. I love how easy it is to prepare, making it perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch or even a cozy weekday treat. The warm, comforting flavors paired with the vibrant burst of strawberries create a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Trust me, once you try the Baked Strawberries And Cream French Toast, it may just become your new go-to recipe for starting the day on a delicious note. So gather your ingredients, and let’s make some breakfast magic happen!
Baked Strawberries And Cream French Toast
A delightful baked French toast dish with strawberries and cream cheese, perfect for brunch or a special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 (16-ounce) loaf brioche bread, cubed
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, cubed
- 1 pound strawberries, diced and divided
- 12 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups whole milk
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
-
Step 1
Step 1: Prepare strawberries and sprinkle with sugar. -
Step 2
Step 2: Whisk eggs, milk, syrup, vanilla, and salt in a bowl. -
Step 3
Step 3: Layer half of the bread, cream cheese, and strawberries in a greased baking dish. -
Step 4
Step 4: Pour custard mixture over layers and let sit for 10-15 minutes. -
Step 5
Step 5: Bake at 350°F covered for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 15-20 minutes. -
Step 6
Step 6: Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.