A decadent breakfast casserole, this Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake blends the richness of cream cheese with the sweetness of strawberries, all baked into soft, custardy bread. Perfect for weekend brunches or special occasions, it can be prepared ahead and baked fresh in the morning.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread, cubed (about 10 cups)
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Powdered sugar, for topping (optional)
Directions
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add half of the bread cubes.
- Evenly distribute the cubed cream cheese and sliced strawberries over the bread.
- Top with the remaining bread cubes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread in the dish, pressing lightly to help it soak in.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.
- Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Let it cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 340 per serving
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Sugars: 17g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 290mg
Why Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake Is a Brunch Favorite
Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake has become a beloved brunch staple due to its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweet and tangy strawberries combined with the creamy richness of the cream cheese bring a gourmet touch to a classic dish. Its warm, custard-like consistency and ease of preparation make it a top choice for hosts looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Perfect for Make-Ahead Convenience
One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is that it can be prepared the night before. This make-ahead feature allows for a stress-free morning where the only task is to pop it in the oven. Ideal for holidays, family gatherings, or lazy weekends, it saves time while still delivering a homemade, comforting meal.
A Kid-Friendly Breakfast Delight
Children love the sweet taste and soft texture of this French toast bake. The inclusion of strawberries makes it visually appealing, and the creamy elements give it a dessert-like feel that kids often find irresistible. Parents will appreciate that it’s a filling and balanced meal that satisfies even picky eaters.
Seasonal and Versatile
While strawberries are typically in season during spring and summer, this recipe works beautifully with frozen strawberries as well, making it a year-round treat. The recipe can also be adapted to feature other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches, depending on seasonal availability.
Ideal for Large Gatherings
Whether it’s a baby shower, holiday brunch, or weekend get-together, this casserole-style dish feeds a crowd with minimal effort. The single-pan preparation means less cleanup, and its impressive presentation right out of the oven adds to the festive atmosphere of any occasion.
Pairs Well with a Variety of Sides
Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake can be part of a larger breakfast spread. It pairs nicely with savory options like scrambled eggs, bacon, or breakfast sausage, and also complements lighter fare such as fresh fruit or yogurt. Its versatility makes menu planning easier for hosts.
Offers a Balanced Flavor Profile
This dish is not overwhelmingly sweet thanks to the tang of cream cheese and the slight saltiness from the custard base. The bread absorbs the egg mixture well, offering both texture and substance, while the strawberries bring a natural brightness that elevates the overall taste.
Can Be Easily Customized
Beyond swapping out the fruits, this recipe allows for various customizations. A streusel topping can be added for crunch, chocolate chips for extra indulgence, or nuts for added protein and texture. Dairy alternatives can also be used to make it suitable for different dietary needs.
Great Way to Use Up Stale Bread
This recipe is an excellent solution for using day-old or slightly stale bread, which tends to absorb the custard mixture more effectively. French bread is the classic choice, but brioche or challah also work beautifully, contributing to a richer and more luxurious flavor.
Elegant Enough for Special Occasions
Despite its ease of preparation, the final product looks and tastes sophisticated. When dusted with powdered sugar and served warm, it makes an elegant impression that feels worthy of birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations.
Comfort Food Appeal
The warm, soft texture and rich, creamy flavor profile make this dish a comforting choice. It taps into the nostalgic qualities of both French toast and cheesecake, offering a dish that feels indulgent and familiar at the same time.
A Balanced Indulgence
While it’s rich, this recipe provides some nutritional balance through the inclusion of eggs, dairy, and fruit. Portion control is easy since it’s baked in a dish and served in slices, allowing for reasonable servings that satisfy without going overboard.
Freezer-Friendly Option
Leftovers can be stored and reheated, and it even freezes well. This makes it a practical option for batch cooking or for households that want to plan meals ahead. Simply wrap portions and reheat as needed for a quick and satisfying breakfast.
A Photogenic Dish for Social Sharing
With its golden-brown top, juicy red strawberries, and creamy layers, this French toast bake is also visually stunning. It’s ideal for sharing on social media or food blogs, attracting attention with its vibrant, appetizing appearance.
Can Be Served Warm or Cold
While it’s best enjoyed warm out of the oven, this dish still tastes great when served at room temperature or even chilled. That flexibility makes it suitable for buffet-style gatherings or picnics where reheating might not be possible.
A Fun Twist on Traditional French Toast
By turning a classic breakfast into a baked casserole, this recipe offers a fresh take on French toast. It transforms a traditionally pan-fried dish into a shareable, low-maintenance option that retains all the beloved qualities of the original.
Low-Mess Preparation and Serving
Unlike stovetop French toast, which can splatter and requires batch cooking, this version is much cleaner to prepare. Serving is also straightforward—simply slice and plate—making it ideal for events where minimizing cleanup is a priority.
Works for Both Breakfast and Brunch
This bake is satisfying enough to serve as a full breakfast but elegant and rich enough to hold its own at a brunch table. It’s a crossover dish that adapts to both casual and more formal settings with ease.
Encourages Family Involvement in Cooking
Because it involves simple steps like layering and mixing, this recipe is a great opportunity to involve kids or family members in the kitchen. It’s a family-friendly way to build memories and enjoy the process together.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake is more than just a recipe—it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing, and deeply satisfying dish that fits perfectly into a variety of occasions and lifestyles. Its balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and visual appeal make it a standout option for breakfast or brunch. Whether you’re hosting a celebration or simply want to treat your family to something special, this bake delivers comfort and joy in every bite.