Golden and buttery on the outside, creamy and fruity on the inside—this homemade Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast is the perfect balance of crisp texture and sweet, melty richness. With thick slices of bread filled with tangy cream cheese and strawberry preserves, then pan-fried to perfection, this indulgent breakfast or brunch dish is simple, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe takes classic French toast to the next level by adding a luscious filling of cream cheese and strawberry jam. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly comforting, and delivers that perfect contrast between crispy exterior and creamy interior. Whether for a weekend breakfast, a special brunch, or a sweet breakfast-for-dinner moment, this stuffed toast is always a welcome treat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 slices thick white bread or brioche
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for frying)
Optional for Serving:
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
Directions
- Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over two slices of bread.
- Spread the strawberry jam or preserves over the remaining two slices.
- Press together to form two stuffed sandwiches.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using) until well combined.
- Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, turning to coat both sides thoroughly.
- Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat until melted and bubbling.
- Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.
- Remove from the skillet, slice in half, and serve warm.
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup if desired.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 2 sandwiches
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per sandwich
Variations
- Berry Blend: Use a mixed berry jam or add fresh sliced strawberries inside the sandwich before cooking.
- Nutty Crunch: Spread a thin layer of almond or peanut butter with the cream cheese for added richness.
- Citrus Twist: Add a bit of orange or lemon zest to the cream cheese for a bright, tangy note.
- Savory-Sweet: Sprinkle a touch of sea salt or use mascarpone instead of cream cheese for a slightly savory contrast.
- Chocolate Version: Replace jam with chocolate hazelnut spread for a dessert-inspired breakfast.
storage/reheating
This French toast is best enjoyed fresh and hot from the skillet. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the toast in a skillet over low heat or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread?
Yes, brioche, challah, or Texas toast are ideal for their thickness and soft texture.
What’s the best cream cheese to use?
Regular full-fat cream cheese gives the richest flavor, but whipped or light versions can also be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble the sandwiches ahead and refrigerate them overnight. Dip and cook just before serving.
Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes, use plant-based cream cheese and a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk.
How can I make this sweeter?
Add a tablespoon of sugar or honey to the egg mixture for a sweeter crust.
Can I bake instead of pan-frying?
Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden.
Can I freeze it?
Freeze after cooking by wrapping each sandwich individually. Reheat in the oven from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
What fruit goes well with this?
Strawberries, raspberries, bananas, or even a fruit compote are excellent pairings.
Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Yes, strawberry or honey-flavored cream cheese works beautifully in this recipe.
What if I don’t have jam?
You can use sliced fresh fruit or a fruit compote instead for a more natural filling.
Conclusion
Homemade Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast is a warm, comforting, and flavorful twist on a breakfast classic. With its golden crust, creamy center, and fruity sweetness, it’s a satisfying and impressive dish that’s easy enough for weekdays yet special enough for celebrations. Serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of syrup, and enjoy a breakfast worth savoring.
PrintStrawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast
Golden and buttery on the outside, creamy and fruity on the inside—this stuffed French toast features a luscious layer of sweet cream cheese and strawberry preserves between thick slices of bread, pan-fried to perfection for a crispy, melty breakfast delight.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 4 slices thick white bread or brioche
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter (for frying)
- Powdered sugar or maple syrup (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Spread cream cheese on two slices of bread and strawberry preserves on the other two. Sandwich them together to make two stuffed toasts.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using).
- Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, coating both sides well.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook each stuffed sandwich for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Slice in half and serve warm with powdered sugar or maple syrup if desired.
Notes
- Use thick-sliced brioche or challah for best results.
- Feel free to substitute jam with fresh sliced strawberries for a fruitier texture.
- Can be made ahead and reheated in a toaster oven.
- Add a touch of lemon zest to the cream cheese for extra brightness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 110mg