Description
Start your morning with a warm, indulgent dish that combines the sweet flavors of strawberries and bananas with creamy swirls of cream cheese. This French toast bake is perfect for family brunches, holiday mornings, or a cozy weekend treat. Inspired by classic fruit-filled pastries, it brings bakery-quality flavors to your home with minimal effort.
Ingredients
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1 loaf day-old brioche or challah bread, cubed
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
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2 ripe bananas, sliced
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6 large eggs
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2 cups whole milk
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1/4 cup brown sugar
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
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Powdered sugar, for serving
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Cube the bread into 1-inch pieces and place evenly in the dish.
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In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
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Layer half the strawberries and bananas over the bread, then dollop half the cream cheese mixture and gently swirl. Repeat with remaining fruit and cream cheese.
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In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and lemon zest until combined.
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Pour the custard evenly over the bread, pressing lightly so all cubes absorb it.
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Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until golden and custard is set.
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Cool for 5–10 minutes, dust with powdered sugar, and serve warm.
Notes
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Use day-old bread for best custard absorption and texture.
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Frozen fruit can be used if thawed and drained of excess liquid.
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For a crunchy topping, sprinkle brown sugar, chopped nuts, or granola before the last 20–25 minutes of baking.
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Lemon zest adds brightness but is optional.
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Can be prepared the night before and refrigerated for easy morning baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes