Description

Imagine waking up to the sweet aroma of warm, baked French toast filling your kitchen, perfectly golden and topped with luscious strawberries. This Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast Bake transforms an ordinary breakfast into a decadent treat, perfect for weekend mornings, festive holiday brunches, or special family gatherings. Combining creamy cheesecake swirls, custard-soaked bread, and fresh strawberries, it’s a dish that delights both the eyes and the taste buds.

Ingredients

Scale

1 loaf of day-old brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Optional: additional fresh strawberries for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the cream cheese filling by beating softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Spread half of the cubed bread evenly in the dish. Dollop half of the cream cheese mixture over the bread and gently swirl with a knife. Top with half of the sliced strawberries. Repeat with the remaining bread, cream cheese mixture, and strawberries.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined. Pour the custard evenly over the layered bread and cream cheese mixture. Press down gently on the bread to ensure it absorbs the custard.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, for best results.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
While the French toast bake cools slightly, prepare the strawberry glaze by combining powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl. Stir until smooth, adding water if needed to reach a pourable consistency.
Drizzle the glaze over the baked French toast and garnish with fresh strawberries. Serve warm.

Notes

Use day-old brioche or challah for best custard absorption.
Fresh strawberries are recommended to avoid excess liquid from frozen berries.
Overnight chilling enhances flavor and texture.
Optional toppings: whipped cream or toasted almonds for extra indulgence.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes