Name: Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: FOR FRENCH TOAST:; 1 loaf brioche bread; 1 cup granulated sugar; 8 cups heavy cream; 2 vanilla beans; 6 large eggs; For Filling:; ½ cup cream cheese; ½ cup ricotta cheese; ½ cup strawberry; For Macerated Strawberries:; ½ cup strawberry; ½ lemon; 1 tsp granulated sugar; ½ lemon; ½ cup blueberry; ¼ cup maple syrup; FOR CHANTILLY CREAM:; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp granulated sugar; ½ tsp vanilla extract; For Garnish:; ½ cup turbinado sugar; 4 fresh mint leaves

Indulge in the ultimate brunch delight with this creamy strawberry stuffed French toast. This recipe combines the rich flavors of brioche bread, cream cheese, and strawberries to create a decadent treat that's perfect for a special morning.

Photos of Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you might need to look out for a few ingredients that aren't typically found in every pantry. Brioche bread is a rich, buttery bread that is key to the luxurious texture of this dish. Vanilla beans add an intense vanilla flavor, and turbinado sugar is used to create a caramelized topping. Make sure to also pick up ricotta cheese and heavy cream.

Ingredients For Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast

Brioche bread: A rich, buttery bread that forms the base of this French toast.

Granulated sugar: Used to sweeten the custard and other elements.

Heavy cream: Adds richness to the custard and Chantilly cream.

Vanilla beans: Provides a strong, natural vanilla flavor.

Eggs: Helps to bind the custard mixture.

Cream cheese: Adds creaminess to the filling.

Ricotta cheese: Contributes a light, fluffy texture to the filling.

Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are used in the filling and as a garnish.

Lemon: Adds a fresh, zesty flavor to the macerated strawberries.

Blueberries: Adds a burst of flavor to the berry mixture.

Maple syrup: Sweetens the macerated berries.

Turbinado sugar: Used to create a caramelized topping on the French toast.

Mint leaves: Adds a fresh, herbal garnish.

Vanilla extract: Adds additional vanilla flavor to the Chantilly cream.

One reader, Hyacintha Lofton says:

This creamy strawberry stuffed french toast recipe is a delightful treat! The combination of creamy filling, macerated berries, and brûléed top is heavenly. Perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. Highly recommend!

Hyacintha Lofton

Techniques Required for Making Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast

How to make a small slit in bread: Using a paring knife, carefully make a small slit in the side of each slice of bread, going almost to the other side, but not all the way through. How to temper eggs: Slowly mix a ladleful of the hot cream mixture into the eggs while whisking constantly to gradually raise the temperature of the eggs without scrambling them. How to make chantilly cream: Combine heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla in a bowl, then beat with an electric hand mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form. How to brûlée sugar: Sprinkle turbinado sugar on top of the French toast, then use a kitchen torch to melt and caramelize the sugar until it is golden brown.

How To Make Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast

Enjoy french toast in a totally new way! Brioche bread is baked ’til golden brown then stuffed with cream cheese and strawberry for a tasty snack.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For French Toast:

1loafbrioche bread,cut into 3-inch slices
1cupgranulated sugar
8cupsheavy cream
2vanilla beans,seeds scraped
6largeeggs,beaten

For Filling:

½cupcream cheese,softened
½cupricotta cheese
½cupstrawberry,quartered

For Macerated Strawberries:

½cupstrawberry,quartered
½lemon,juiced
1tspgranulated sugar
½lemon
½cupblueberry
¼cupmaple syrup

For Chantilly Cream:

1cupheavy cream
2tbspgranulated sugar
½tspvanilla extract

For Garnish:

½cupturbinado sugar
4fresh mint leaves

Equipments

Kitchen torch

Instructions

French Toast:

Using a paring knife, make a small slit in the side of each slice of bread, going almost to the other side, but not all the way through. Set aside.
In a large pot over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla bean seeds and bring to a simmer. Whisk for about 5 minutes, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is warmed through.
Add the eggs to a large bowl. Slowly mix a ladleful of the cream mixture and whisk to temper the eggs so they do not scramble.
Remove the cream mixture from the heat and slowly stream the egg mixture into the pot, whisking to combine. Let it cool to room temperature.
Arrange the sliced brioche in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the cooled custard mixture over the bread. Let soak for at least 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Transfer the soaked brioche to a clean 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.

Filling:

While the toast bakes and cools, make the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and strawberries.
Beat with an electric hand mixer on medium speed until fully combined and fluffy. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip and chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Macerated Strawberries:

In a separate medium bowl, combine the strawberries, lemon juice, sugar, and lemon zest. Stir well, then set aside to macerate for 10 minutes.

Chantilly Cream:

In a separate medium bowl, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla. Beat with an electric hand mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
Pipe the ricotta and cream cheese mixture into the center of each slice of French toast, being careful not to overfill.
Top each slice of French toast with a generous sprinkle of turbinado sugar. Brûlée the sugar with a kitchen torch until melted and golden brown.
Add the blueberries and maple syrup to the macerated strawberries and stir to combine.
Garnish each slice of brûléed French toast with a spoonful of the berry mixture, a dollop of chantilly cream, and a mint leaf. Serve immediately. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 2859.52kcal
Fat: 226.63g
Saturated Fat: 135.77g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 66.38g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 10.75g
Carbohydrates: 177.32g
Fiber: 4.18g
Sugar: 116.77g
Protein: 37.49g
Cholesterol: 1121.55mg
Sodium: 902.60mg
Calcium: 627.66mg
Potassium: 853.45mg
Iron: 5.77mg
Vitamin A: 2541.16µg
Vitamin C: 31.21mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast

When making the custard for the french toast, ensure you temper the eggs properly by slowly mixing a ladleful of the hot cream mixture into the eggs while whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling and ensures a smooth, creamy custard.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Stuffed French Toast Recipe

Prepare the filling: Make the cream cheese and ricotta cheese mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

Macerate in advance: Combine strawberries, lemon juice, and sugar the night before to save time.

Use pre-sliced bread: Opt for pre-sliced brioche bread to skip the slicing step.

Ready-made chantilly cream: Use store-bought whipped cream instead of making chantilly cream from scratch.

Quick soak method: Soak the brioche in the custard mixture for 30 minutes instead of an hour by gently pressing the bread down to absorb faster.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast Recipe

brioche bread - Substitute with challah bread: Both are rich, slightly sweet, and have a similar texture, making them excellent for French toast.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: It has a similar sweetness level and can add a subtle caramel flavor.
heavy cream - Substitute with half-and-half: It will make the French toast slightly less rich but still creamy.
vanilla beans - Substitute with vanilla extract: Use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for each vanilla bean to achieve a similar flavor.
large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg to make a vegan alternative.
cream cheese - Substitute with mascarpone cheese: It has a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making it a good alternative for the filling.
ricotta cheese - Substitute with cottage cheese: Blend it until smooth to achieve a similar texture and mild flavor.
strawberry - Substitute with raspberry: They provide a similar tartness and sweetness, making them a good alternative for the filling and macerated fruit.
lemon - Substitute with lime: It provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor.
blueberry - Substitute with blackberry: They offer a similar burst of sweetness and tartness.
maple syrup - Substitute with honey: It provides a similar sweetness and can be used in the same quantity.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: It will provide a similar richness and can be whipped into chantilly cream.
granulated sugar - Substitute with powdered sugar: It dissolves more easily and can be used to sweeten the chantilly cream.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: It provides a different but complementary flavor to the chantilly cream.
turbinado sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: It has a similar molasses content and can be used for garnishing.
fresh mint leaves - Substitute with basil leaves: They provide a different but refreshing herbal note for garnish.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed French Toast with Creamy Strawberries

Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the brioche bread into elegant, uniform pieces to ensure each serving is delicate and refined.
Use decoration: Garnish each plate with a fresh mint leaf and a light dusting of turbinado sugar for a touch of sophistication.
Layer the components: Place the creamy strawberry filling between two slices of brioche to create a visually appealing layered effect.
Add height: Pipe a generous dollop of chantilly cream on top of the french toast to add height and elegance to the presentation.
Create contrast: Drizzle the macerated strawberry and blueberry mixture around the plate to create a vibrant contrast with the golden french toast.
Use a brûlée torch: Brûlée the turbinado sugar on top of the french toast slices to add a caramelized, crispy texture that will impress the judges.
Balance flavors: Ensure the sweetness of the maple syrup and macerated berries balances with the creamy ricotta and cream cheese filling.
Highlight freshness: Use only the freshest strawberries and blueberries to ensure the dish is bursting with flavor and color.
Attention to detail: Carefully pipe the filling into each slice of french toast to ensure a uniform and professional appearance.
Serve immediately: Present the dish while the french toast is still warm and the chantilly cream is freshly whipped to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Essential Tools for Making Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast

Paring knife: Used to make a small slit in the side of each slice of bread for stuffing.
Large pot: Used to combine and heat the granulated sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla bean seeds.
Whisk: Used to dissolve the sugar in the cream mixture and to combine the egg mixture with the cream mixture.
Large bowl: Used to whisk the eggs and temper them with the cream mixture.
9x13-inch baking dish: Used to arrange the sliced brioche and soak it in the custard mixture.
Oven: Preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to bake the soaked brioche.
Medium bowl: Used to combine the cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and strawberries for the filling.
Electric hand mixer: Used to beat the filling mixture until fully combined and fluffy, and to beat the chantilly cream until soft peaks form.
Piping bag: Fitted with a large round tip, used to pipe the filling into the French toast.
Kitchen torch: Used to brûlée the turbinado sugar on top of the French toast slices.
Zester: Used to zest the lemon for the macerated strawberries.
Spoon: Used to stir the macerated strawberries and to garnish the French toast with the berry mixture.
Spatula: Used to transfer the soaked brioche to a clean baking dish.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the ingredients accurately.
Mint leaves: Used as a garnish for the final presentation.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast

To store the creamy strawberry stuffed french toast, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the french toast, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the frozen french toast, remove the desired number of slices from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat the slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
For the best texture and flavor, it's recommended to prepare the macerated strawberries and chantilly cream fresh when serving the reheated french toast. However, you can store any leftover macerated strawberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, and the chantilly cream can be stored in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
If you have leftover ricotta and cream cheese filling, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can use it as a spread for toast, bagels, or other baked goods.

How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover creamy strawberry stuffed french toast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the french toast loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to crisp up the exterior.
If you have an air fryer, you can reheat the french toast quickly and easily. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover slices in the air fryer basket, making sure they don't overlap. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
For a quick and convenient method, you can use your microwave. Place a slice of the leftover stuffed french toast on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as the cream cheese and ricotta filling may become too hot and start to melt.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat your leftover french toast. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the slices on the toaster oven rack and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or cooking spray to the pan. Place the leftover slices in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy.
If you want to reheat the macerated strawberries and chantilly cream as well, microwave them separately in microwave-safe bowls for 15-20 seconds, or until just warm. Stir well before serving atop the reheated french toast.

Interesting Fact About Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast

A unique aspect of this creamy strawberry stuffed French toast recipe is the use of brioche bread, which is known for its rich and buttery texture. This enhances the overall flavor and creates a luxurious base for the custard mixture.

Is Making Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast at Home Cost-Effective?

The creamy strawberry stuffed French toast recipe, while indulgent, may not be the most cost-effective for a household. The use of brioche bread, heavy cream, and vanilla beans significantly increases the cost. Additionally, ricotta cheese, cream cheese, and fresh strawberries add to the expense. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $25-$30 USD. Overall Verdict: 6/10.

Is Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast Healthy or Unhealthy?

This creamy strawberry stuffed french toast recipe, while indulgent and delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High sugar content from the granulated sugar, turbinado sugar, and maple syrup
Excessive use of heavy cream, which is high in saturated fat
Brioche bread, which is made with butter and eggs, adding to the overall fat content
Cream cheese and ricotta cheese, contributing to the saturated fat and calorie count

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar used in the custard mixture and opt for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in moderation
Replace some of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or almond milk to decrease the saturated fat content
Use whole grain bread instead of brioche to increase fiber intake and reduce the overall fat content
Swap cream cheese and ricotta for low-fat versions or use Greek yogurt as a protein-rich alternative
Increase the proportion of fresh fruits like strawberries and blueberries to boost the nutritional value and natural sweetness of the dish

By incorporating more whole grains, reducing the sugar and fat content, and emphasizing fresh fruits, you can transform this indulgent treat into a more balanced and nutritious breakfast option. Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying this french toast occasionally as part of a varied diet can still be part of a healthy lifestyle.

Editor's Opinion on This Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast Recipe

This recipe is an indulgent twist on classic French toast, combining rich custard-soaked brioche with a luscious cream cheese and ricotta filling. The brûléed turbinado sugar adds a delightful crunch, while the macerated strawberries and blueberries provide a fresh, tangy contrast. The chantilly cream and mint garnish elevate the dish, making it perfect for a special brunch. However, the process is quite involved and may be time-consuming for novice cooks. Overall, it's a decadent and visually stunning dish that promises to impress.

Enhance Your Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Add a touch of elegance to your meal with roasted asparagus drizzled in lemon zest. The bright citrus notes will perfectly balance the creamy richness of the stuffed French toast.

Maple-Glazed Bacon: For a sweet and savory twist, serve up some maple-glazed bacon. The crispy, caramelized edges will complement the brûléed French toast and add a delightful crunch.

Herbed Potato Hash: A hearty herbed potato hash can bring a savory depth to your breakfast table. The earthy flavors of rosemary and thyme will contrast beautifully with the sweet strawberries and chantilly cream.

Citrus Fruit Salad: Brighten up your plate with a refreshing citrus fruit salad. The tangy oranges, grapefruits, and a hint of mint will cleanse your palate and enhance the fruity notes of the French toast.

Vanilla Bean Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey, a vanilla bean yogurt parfait adds a creamy, crunchy element that pairs wonderfully with the stuffed French toast.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoy Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast

Blueberry Lemon Ricotta Pancakes: Imagine fluffy pancakes infused with zesty lemon and creamy ricotta cheese. Top them with a generous helping of fresh blueberries and a drizzle of maple syrup. Perfect for a delightful brunch or a sweet breakfast treat.

Raspberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast: Take your French toast game up a notch by stuffing it with a luscious raspberry and cream cheese filling. Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar and a handful of fresh raspberries for a burst of fruity goodness in every bite.

Peach Cobbler French Toast Casserole: Transform your morning with this decadent French toast casserole layered with juicy peaches and a hint of cinnamon. Baked to perfection, it’s like having peach cobbler for breakfast. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Banana Nutella Stuffed Crepes: Indulge in delicate crepes filled with creamy Nutella and sliced bananas. Roll them up and top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few hazelnuts for a delightful crunch. Perfect for a special breakfast or dessert.

Apple Cinnamon French Toast Roll-Ups: These French toast roll-ups are filled with a sweet apple and cinnamon mixture, then rolled up and cooked to golden perfection. Serve with a side of maple syrup for dipping and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an irresistible morning treat.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Complement Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. A touch of Parmesan cheese adds a delightful crust on top. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful. Serve them hot, and watch them disappear in no time.

Caprese Skewers: Delight your guests with Caprese Skewers, a fresh and vibrant appetizer. Picture juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves threaded onto skewers. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for a touch of sweetness and tang. These skewers are not only visually appealing but also a refreshing start to any meal, embodying the essence of Italian cuisine.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful. Serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a balanced and satisfying meal. The combination of smoky, citrusy chicken and the crisp, cool salad will leave your taste buds dancing.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your family with Stuffed Bell Peppers, a colorful and nutritious main course. These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, quinoa, and black beans, seasoned with cumin and paprika. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, these stuffed peppers are baked until tender and bursting with flavor. Pair them with a side of avocado lime rice for a complete meal that is both hearty and wholesome. The combination of textures and flavors will make this dish a family favorite.

Why trust this Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of brioche bread, cream cheese, and strawberries to create a decadent breakfast treat. The custard mixture ensures a creamy texture, while the brûléed turbinado sugar adds a delightful crunch. The macerated strawberries and chantilly cream provide a fresh and luxurious finish. Each step is carefully crafted to guarantee a delicious and satisfying result. Trust this recipe for a gourmet experience that will impress any brunch guest.

Want to discuss this Creamy Strawberry Stuffed French Toast Recipe further? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum section and let us know your thoughts, tips, and experiences with this delightful breakfast dish!

FAQ:

How do I make sure the custard mixture doesn't scramble the eggs?

When adding the hot cream mixture to the eggs, do it slowly and whisk constantly. This process, called tempering, helps to gradually raise the temperature of the eggs without cooking them.

Can I prepare any parts of this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the custard mixture and let the bread soak overnight in the fridge. You can also make the filling and chantilly cream ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the French toast.

What if I don't have a kitchen torch for brûléeing the sugar?

No worries! You can place the French toast slices under the broiler in your oven for a few minutes until the sugar melts and turns golden brown. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Can I use a different type of bread if I don't have brioche?

Absolutely! While brioche is ideal for its rich and tender texture, you can use challah or even a thick-cut white bread as a substitute. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold up to the custard.

How do I store leftovers and reheat them?

Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.