Introduction

Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Soft challah bread is filled with a sweet cream cheese and strawberry jam mixture, then cooked to golden perfection. Topped with fresh berries and maple syrup, it’s a delicious treat perfect for weekends or special occasions.

A white plate holds two thick slices of golden-brown French toast stacked on top of each other, with visible crispy edges and soft inside. Fresh, bright red strawberries with green leaves are scattered on top and around the toast. A woman's hand pours warm amber syrup from a small, ridged ceramic container onto the top slice, creating a shiny glaze. The plate sits on a soft white cloth on a white marbled surface. In the blurred background, there is a pale pink cup filled with dark coffee. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 challah bread (sliced into 1 inch thick pieces)

3 eggs

1 ¼ cup whole milk (or dairy-free milk)

1 tbsp vanilla extract

4 tbsp unsalted butter (for cooking)

8 oz cream cheese (softened)

½ cup strawberry jam (or your favorite jam)

Strawberries or other berries (cut into pieces)

Maple syrup

Powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese and jam together until you have a spreadable consistency.

Step 2: Cut the challah bread into 1 inch thick slices. Using a sharp knife, cut an opening on the edge of each bread slice, creating a pocket without cutting all the way through.

Step 3: Use a butter knife to spread a few teaspoons of the cream cheese filling into each pocket. Avoid overstuffing to prevent the filling from seeping out. Seal the cut edges by pressing them down with a fork.

Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Dip each stuffed bread slice into the mixture, coating both sides completely.

Step 5: Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat and add the butter. When melted, cook the stuffed French toast slices for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.

Step 6: Serve topped with fresh strawberries, maple syrup, and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Tips & Variations

Use brioche or thick white bread if challah is not available for a similar texture and flavor.

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the egg mixture before dipping the bread.

Try different jams like raspberry or apricot to vary the fruit filling.

If you prefer a less sweet version, use less jam and top with fresh fruit only.

Make a savory version by substituting cream cheese with garlic herb cheese and skipping the jam.

FAQs

Can I prepare this French toast ahead of time?

You can assemble the stuffed bread slices and keep them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking. For best texture, cook fresh just before serving.

What if I don’t have challah bread?

Challah is preferred for its soft texture and slightly sweet flavor, but brioche or thick sliced white bread work well as alternatives. Avoid very dense or whole grain breads for best results.