Ingredients
For the French Toast:
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- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, sliced thick
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- 4 large eggs
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- 1 cup whole milk
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- ½ cup heavy cream
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- ¼ cup granulated sugar
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- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
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- 1 tsp cinnamon
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- ¼ tsp salt
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
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- 8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened
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- ¼ cup powdered sugar
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- 1 tsp vanilla extract
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- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, diced
For Topping:
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- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
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- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
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- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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- Gently fold in diced strawberries. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the French Toast Bake
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- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
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- Arrange half of the bread slices in the baking dish.
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- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bread.
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- Layer the remaining bread slices on top, sandwiching the filling.
Step 3: Make the Custard
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- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
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- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
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- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
Step 4: Bake the French Toast
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- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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- Remove from the fridge and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
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- Let the French toast bake cool for 5 minutes before serving.
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- Top with fresh strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar.
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- Drizzle with maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness.
- Serve warm and enjoy this deliciously creamy, crispy, and fruity breakfast!
Notes
Storage & Reheating Tips
✔ Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✔ Freeze for Later: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
✔ Reheat Easily: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.