Name: Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast for Brunch Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 195 min
Ingredients: 1 loaf Brioche Bread (Use sturdy bread to absorb the custard without becoming soggy.); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Prefer brick-style for best texture.); 2 cups Strawberries (Fresh strawberries are crucial.); 4 large Eggs (Beaten eggs for stable custard texture.); 2 cups Whole Milk (2% milk may be substituted for a lighter version.); 1/2 cup Maple Syrup (Optional substitutions include agave nectar or honey.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Optional but enhances flavor.); 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt (Essential for flavor.); 1 tbsp Confectioners' Sugar (Optional sprinkle before serving.)

Have you ever found yourself in the middle of a breakfast rush, dreaming of raspberry-studded French toast? It’s that magical moment when you realize breakfast can be both an indulgent treat and a time-saver. Enter my Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast: a make-ahead masterpiece! With just 15 minutes of prep, you can create a deliciously comforting dish that transforms your brunch game. This recipe is wonderfully customizable—whether you’re a brioche fanatic or prefer a heartier sourdough, the options are endless. Plus, the creamy cheese filling paired with fresh strawberries makes it a total crowd-pleaser. So, why not gather your loved ones and get ready to impress? Can you picture yourself savoring each golden-brown bite? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why is Baked Strawberries French Toast Special?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and fresh strawberries results in a scrumptious blend that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Make-Ahead Magic: Perfect for busy mornings, this dish can be prepped the night before—just bake and enjoy!

Endless Customization: Use brioche, challah, or sourdough, and swap strawberries for seasonal fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a unique twist!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for brunch gatherings or holiday feasts, it’s a dish everyone will rave about.

Easy and Quick: With only 15 minutes of hands-on prep, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy the company of friends and family over your delightful breakfast.

Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast Ingredients

For the French Toast
• Brioche Bread – Use sturdy bread to absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
• Cream Cheese – Prefer brick-style cream cheese for creaminess—avoid whipped for best texture.
• Strawberries – Fresh strawberries are crucial; avoid frozen as they may release excess moisture.
• Eggs – Use large, beaten eggs for a stable custard texture.
• Whole Milk – Substitute with 2% milk for a lighter version if desired.
• Maple Syrup – Substitute with agave nectar or honey if preferred.
• Vanilla Extract – Optional but enhances overall taste.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for bringing out flavors.

For the Topping
• Confectioners’ Sugar – Optional sprinkle before serving for added sweetness.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This crucial first step ensures your Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast bakes evenly, allowing the custard to set perfectly and achieve that golden-brown goodness. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients to streamline the process.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking. This quick step helps your French toast come out effortlessly after baking. Make sure to cover all corners for optimal release, so you can serve up your delicious creation without worries.

Step 3: Layer the Bread and Filling
Evenly layer half of the cubed brioche at the bottom of the prepared dish. Spoon dollops of cream cheese over the bread, spreading it gently, and add half of the diced strawberries on top. This combination of textures and flavors will create a delightful surprise with every bite of your baked French toast.

Step 4: Top with Remaining Bread
Now, cover the cream cheese and strawberries with the remaining brioche cubes. Make sure the bread layer is level to ensure even custard absorption. This final layer will give your dish structure and be the canvas for the luscious custard mixture you’ll create next.

Step 5: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, whole milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and kosher salt until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy. This custard will soak into the layers of bread, infusing them with flavor, so make sure all ingredients are thoroughly blended.

Step 6: Pour the Custard Over the Bread
Evenly pour the custard mixture over the layered brioche, ensuring every piece of bread is soaked. Use a spoon to gently press down the bread slightly, helping it absorb the custard fully. This step is vital for achieving that comforting custardy texture, characteristic of a perfect Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast.

Step 7: Chill the Dish
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. Allowing the bread to soak in the custard overnight will enrich the flavors and result in a more satisfying dish. When ready to bake, remove the dish from the refrigerator for a smoother transition to baking.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking
About 30 minutes before baking, remove the dish from the fridge to bring it closer to room temperature. This helps it bake evenly and reduces the baking time. Prepping ahead allows the brioche to relax and ensures a fluffy texture throughout your delightful French toast.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that time, carefully uncover and continue to bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top. The center should be firm but slightly jiggly, indicating a luscious custard texture within. Your kitchen will be filled with a heavenly aroma!

Step 10: Prepare to Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. To serve, cut into squares and plate warm portions, garnished with leftover strawberries. Optionally, sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Each serving of this Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast is sure to delight!

Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists that can elevate your Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast to new levels of scrumptiousness!

Berry Medley: Replace strawberries with a mix of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a vibrant fruit explosion. Each bite will be a delightful celebration of seasonal fruit flavors.
Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with coconut cream or a vegan cream cheese alternative for a lighter option. This swap ensures you still achieve that creamy texture while accommodating dietary preferences.
Spiced Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture for warm, cozy notes that dance through every delicious slice. Simply mix in a teaspoon or more, depending on your preference.
Nuts for Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts between the layers for added texture. The crunchiness will contrast beautifully with the soft custard and creamy cheese.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in some chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the custard for an indulgent twist. A drizzle of melted chocolate on top just before serving will take things to the next level of decadence!
Sourdough Surprise: Switch the brioche for sourdough for a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of strawberries beautifully. The firmer texture provides a unique taste experience you’ll adore.
Maple Twist: Try infusing your milk with maple syrup instead of regular sweeteners. This creates a rich, caramel-like flavor that will elevate this comforting dish even more.

If you enjoy experimenting with flavors, consider pairing your French toast with Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for a fun, sweet complement or serve alongside Baked Feta Eggs for a savory touch. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast are perfect for meal prep! You can effortlessly assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the instructions until the custard is poured over the bread, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. For those looking to prep even earlier, you can freeze the unbaked assembly for up to 3 months—just wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge or freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This ensures that your French toast comes out just as delicious and perfectly golden brown! Enjoy a stress-free brunch that allows you to savor every moment with your loved ones.

What to Serve with Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast

Elevate your brunch experience by pairing this delightful dish with complementary sides and drinks that enhance every bite.

Maple Syrup: Serve warm maple syrup on the side to add a luscious sweetness that perfectly complements the creamy and fruity notes of the French toast.
Crisp Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon provides a delightful contrast to the soft, creamy French toast, balancing flavors beautifully.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad featuring berries, melons, and citrus adds refreshing brightness, creating a colorful, healthful accompaniment.
Yogurt Parfait: Creamy yogurt layered with granola and fresh fruit offers a delightful textural contrast and adds a wholesome element to your brunch spread.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream brings a touch of indulgence and richness that perfectly complements the strawberries and cream cheese filling.
Iced Coffee: Refresh your palate with a chilled glass of iced coffee or a latte, enhancing your brunch with a caffeine kick that pairs wonderfully with this sweet dish.
Sparkling Water with Mint: Light and refreshing, sparkling water with a sprig of mint cleanses the palate and adds a hint of sophistication to your meal.
Lemonade: A chilled lemonade offers a sweet and tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the richness of the French toast, making it a brunch staple.
Chocolate Croissants: For those who crave extra indulgence, serving flaky chocolate croissants alongside your French toast creates a delightful, luxurious brunch experience that everyone will love.

How to Store and Freeze Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast

Fridge: Keep leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through for a quick breakfast fix.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze unbaked casserole components in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Reheating: To reheat baked portions, warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy this cozy treat whenever your heart desires!

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare this delicious Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast the night before and refrigerate before baking for a hassle-free morning.

Expert Tips for Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast

• Bread Choice Matters: Use day-old or slightly stale brioche to achieve the perfect custard-soaked texture without sogginess.

• Cream Cheese Spread: For the best results, stick to brick-style cream cheese. Whipped varieties may turn too airy and disrupt the filling’s richness.

• Proper Soaking Time: Don’t rush the chilling process! Allow the dish to soak overnight to fully absorb flavors and attain that creamy custard consistency.

• Avoid Soggy Bread: If using fresh bread, consider toasting the cubes at 275°F for 10-15 minutes. This prevents them from becoming overly soggy during soaking.

• Baking Time Cues: Monitor closely while baking; the center should be slightly firm and jiggly—overbaking can lead to dryness.

• Leftover Storage: Enjoy leftovers for breakfast or brunch! They can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days and reheated with ease.

Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of bread is best for Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast?
Absolutely! I recommend using brioche or challah, as their rich texture soaks up the custard beautifully without getting too soggy. If you only have fresh bread, consider lightly toasting it at 275°F for 10-15 minutes to create a firmer base for the custard.

How should I store leftovers of Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast?
Very easily! Simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

Can I freeze Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast?
Yes, you can! To freeze, prepare the dish but don’t bake it. Instead, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed!

What should I do if my bread is too soggy after soaking?
If you find your bread has become too soggy, don’t worry—this can happen with overly soft bread. Next time, consider using day-old or slightly stale bread which typically holds up better. You can also try pre-toasting the bread cubes to prevent excess moisture absorption.

Are there any dietary considerations for Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast?
Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives or low-fat versions. Also, if you’re concerned about gluten, you can opt for gluten-free bread. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.

How long should I let the dish chill before baking?
Ideally, allow your Baked Strawberries and Cream Cheese French Toast to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but overnight soaking is best for the flavors to meld. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking for even cooking!