Description
This Stuffed French Toast recipe features slices of brioche bread filled with a sweet and creamy strawberry cream cheese mixture, then soaked in a rich custard, and cooked to golden perfection. Topped with fresh berries and drizzled with maple syrup, it’s a decadent breakfast that combines indulgence with fruitiness, perfect for a special weekend brunch or holiday breakfast.
Ingredients
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened at room temperature
¼ cup heavy cream
¼ cup honey
1 cup small-diced fresh strawberries
For the Custard:
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon honey or granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Other:
1 large loaf brioche bread (unsliced)
Unsalted butter for the griddle
Fresh berries for toppings
Maple syrup for drizzling
Instructions
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese with the ¼ cup of heavy cream and ¼ cup of honey on medium-high speed until light and fluffy. Then, fold in the diced strawberries with a spoon or rubber spatula. Set aside. If mixture is too thick, add more cream, or add more honey to taste.
- Prepare the Custard: In a baking pan, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, honey or sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt until very well combined. Set aside.
- Prepare the Bread: Using a serrated knife, cut the brioche into 1.5-inch thick slices, about 6 slices. Carefully cut pockets along the top edge of each slice without cutting all the way through. Fill each pocket with the strawberry cream cheese filling, being careful not to overstuff to prevent tearing.
- Soak the Bread: Place the stuffed bread slices in the custard mixture, soaking for about 3 to 5 minutes per side until the custard is absorbed. You may need to divide the slices into two pans to fit all slices.
- Cook the French Toast: Heat a flat griddle or skillet over medium heat and add some butter. Cook each slice for approximately 5 minutes per side until golden brown and the center is warm. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Serve: Serve immediately topped with fresh berries, drizzle with maple syrup, and enjoy the indulgent flavors!
Notes
- If using pre-sliced brioche, use less filling and reduce soaking time to avoid sogginess.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
- French toast does not freeze well, as it becomes soggy when thawed.
- Feel free to substitute strawberries with any fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
- Challah or Japanese milk bread can be used in place of brioche for a different texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 150g)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
