Name: Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (16-ounce) loaf brioche bread, cubed; 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, cubed; 1 pound strawberries, diced and divided; 12 large eggs, beaten; 2 cups whole milk; ⅓ cup maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.3 from 62 reviews

If you’re craving a brunch that feels like a warm hug on a weekend morning, this Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine layers of tender brioche soaked in a sweet custard, studded with luscious cream cheese and vibrant strawberries that burst with every bite. It’s the perfect harmony of creamy, fruity, and sugary goodness that transforms a simple breakfast into a showstopper that everyone will adore.

A clean white marble surface with a neat flat lay arrangement of ingredients for baked strawberries and cream French toast: a rustic loaf of golden brioche bread cut into cubes revealing soft, airy texture; a block of smooth, creamy white cream cheese cut into cubes; vibrant red strawberries, some whole and some diced, showing juicy, glossy flesh; a light wooden bowl filled with beaten eggs, bright yellow and slightly frothy; a glass measuring cup with whole milk, creamy white and slightly reflective; a small clear bowl of amber maple syrup glistening under soft light; a tiny glass container with pure white vanilla extract; a small dish with coarse kosher salt crystals sparkling; and a fine sieve dusting a small mound of white confectioners’ sugar. The ingredients are spaced evenly with natural shadows, emphasizing color contrast and texture diversity. Soft, natural daylight illuminates the scene, creating gentle highlights and a fresh, inviting atmosphere. overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients seem straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, creaminess, and texture to create this irresistible dish. From the rich brioche to the fresh strawberries, every component is essential.

Brioche bread: A fluffy and buttery loaf that soaks up the custard beautifully without getting soggy.
Cream cheese: Cubed for pockets of rich, tangy creaminess throughout the bake.
Strawberries: Fresh and diced, offering bursts of sweet and slightly tart juiciness.
Large eggs: The foundation for our rich custard base binding everything together.
Whole milk: Adds creaminess to the custard for a smooth, silky texture.
Maple syrup: Provides natural sweetness with a subtle depth that complements the strawberries.
Vanilla extract: Infuses the custard with fragrant warmth that elevates all other flavors.
Kosher salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the overall taste.
Confectioners’ sugar: A light dusting to finish off the dish with a delicate sweetness and pretty presentation.

How to Make Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe

Step 1: Prepare strawberries and sprinkle with sugar

Start by washing and dicing the strawberries. Sprinkle a small amount of sugar over them to draw out their natural juices and intensify their flavor. This juicy strawberry mixture will add both color and a fresh burst of sweetness to the dish.

Step 2: Whisk eggs, milk, syrup, vanilla, and salt in a bowl

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, to ensure the custard is silky smooth, maple syrup for a gentle, natural sweetness, vanilla extract for warm aromatics, and kosher salt to enhance all flavors. This custard mixture is the heart of the French toast, soaking the bread and setting the creamy texture.

Step 3: Layer half of the bread, cream cheese, and strawberries in a greased baking dish

Grease your baking dish to prevent sticking and begin layering half of the brioche cubes. Scatter half of the cream cheese cubes and half of your sugared strawberries evenly on top. This layering technique ensures every bite carries that perfect balance of bread, creamy cheese, and juicy fruit.

Step 4: Pour custard mixture over layers and let sit for 10-15 minutes

Slowly pour the custard mixture over your layered bread, cream cheese, and strawberries, allowing it to soak into every nook and cranny. Letting the dish sit for 10 to 15 minutes allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, promising a tender and custardy French toast once baked.

Step 5: Bake at 350°F covered for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 15-20 minutes

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit to let the custard set gently without drying out. After 30 minutes, remove the foil to allow the top to brown nicely and develop a lightly caramelized, golden crust in the final 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 6: Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving

Once out of the oven, let the dish cool slightly, then dust with confectioners’ sugar for a delicate, sweet finish that also adds a lovely visual appeal. It’s now ready to be served warm and enjoyed.

How to Serve Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe with fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of extra maple syrup for added sweetness. A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted almonds can add texture and richness, making every bite informative and indulgent.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with light sides like crispy bacon or sausage links to offset its sweet creaminess. Fresh fruit salad or a citrusy yogurt parfait works wonderfully if you want to keep the meal light and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, scoop individual portions into pretty bowls or deep plates. Add a few whole strawberries on top for bursts of color, and consider serving with mini jars of warm syrup or compote on the side to allow guests to customize their sweetness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making for an easy and delicious breakfast the following day.

Freezing

You can freeze portions by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and foil, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy mornings.

Reheating

Reheat leftover French toast in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through to keep the crust crisp. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave will work in a pinch, though the texture will be softer.

FAQs

Can I use another type of bread instead of brioche?

Absolutely! While brioche is ideal for its buttery texture, challah or a thick-sliced white bread can also work beautifully for this Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the whole milk with any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to keep that creamy texture without dairy.

How long can I let the custard soak overnight?

If you want to prep ahead, you can soak the French toast overnight in the fridge. Just cover it tightly and bake fresh the next morning for an effortless brunch.

Can I add other fruits besides strawberries?

Definitely! Blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches can add a lovely twist to this recipe while keeping that fresh fruit brightness you expect from this dish.

What are some good toppings for added texture?

Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, granola, or toasted coconut flakes all add delightful crunch to contrast the custardy softness of this Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe is more than just breakfast; it’s a celebration of vibrant flavors and comforting textures wrapped in one easy dish. Whether you’re treating family or impressing guests, this recipe brings cozy elegance and plenty of smiles to your table. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your brunch rotation!