Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast

**Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast**

*A Decadent Breakfast Delight Bursting with Creamy Cheesecake and Juicy Strawberries*

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### Introduction

Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast is the kind of breakfast that turns a lazy weekend morning into something extraordinary. This rich and indulgent dish combines the comforting familiarity of French toast with the luscious flavors of strawberry cheesecake. Imagine two slices of golden, buttery bread hugging a creamy cheesecake filling, swirled with fresh strawberries, then pan-fried to crisp perfection and topped with even more strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s decadent, satisfying, and just sweet enough to start the day with a smile—or end brunch with applause.

This recipe makes an ideal treat for a holiday breakfast, brunch with friends, or even breakfast-for-dinner nights. While it looks impressive, it’s easy to put together and customizable depending on your favorite toppings or bread.

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### Ingredients

#### For the Cheesecake Filling:

* 8 oz cream cheese, softened

* ¼ cup powdered sugar

* 1 tsp vanilla extract

* ½ cup diced fresh strawberries

#### For the French Toast:

* 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread, sliced into 1½-inch thick slices

* 4 large eggs

* ¾ cup whole milk

* ¼ cup heavy cream

* 2 tbsp granulated sugar

* 1 tsp cinnamon

* 1 tsp vanilla extract

* Butter or oil, for frying

#### For the Strawberry Topping:

* 1½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced

* 2 tbsp granulated sugar

* 1 tsp lemon juice

* Optional: maple syrup, whipped cream, powdered sugar for garnish

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### Instructions

#### Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.

2. Beat until smooth and creamy with a hand mixer or by hand using a sturdy whisk.

3. Gently fold in the diced strawberries. Set aside or refrigerate while you prepare the rest of the components.

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#### Step 2: Prep the Bread

1. Use a serrated knife to cut a deep pocket into the center of each bread slice without cutting all the way through. The goal is to create a pocket that can hold the cheesecake mixture securely inside.

2. Carefully spoon or pipe about 2–3 tablespoons of the cheesecake filling into each pocket. Be sure not to overfill, or it may ooze out during cooking.

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#### Step 3: Make the Custard

1. In a shallow dish (like a pie plate), whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.

2. Dip each stuffed slice of bread into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for about 30 seconds per side. Ensure the bread is coated but not soggy.

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#### Step 4: Cook the French Toast

1. Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a bit of butter or oil to coat the surface.

2. Place the soaked, stuffed slices onto the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. If needed, lower the heat slightly to avoid burning the outside before the inside is heated through.

3. Transfer cooked slices to a warm oven (set to about 200°F/95°C) while you finish cooking the rest.

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#### Step 5: Make the Strawberry Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice.

2. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to macerate. The strawberries will become juicy and slightly syrupy—perfect for spooning over your French toast.

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### Serving Suggestions

Plate two slices of stuffed French toast and spoon the strawberry topping generously over the top. Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of warm maple syrup for an extra decadent touch. Serve with coffee or a mimosa for a restaurant-quality brunch at home.

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### Tips & Variations

* **Bread Choices**: Brioche and challah are ideal for their richness and structure, but you can also use thick-sliced Texas toast or French bread.

* **Make It Ahead**: Stuff and refrigerate the bread the night before. Just dip and cook in the morning.

* **Filling Options**: Swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or even a spoonful of jam. Add lemon zest to the cheesecake filling for a citrusy twist.

* **Dairy-Free Version**: Use plant-based cream cheese, non-dairy milk, and coconut cream for an equally delicious result.

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### Final Thoughts

Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast brings together the best of breakfast and dessert into one unforgettable bite. The crisp outer layer gives way to a creamy, tangy-sweet filling, complemented perfectly by juicy strawberries on top. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a weekend treat, this dish is bound to become a favorite.

Would you like a printable recipe card or a variation for air frying or baking instead of pan-frying?