Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast Casserole with Strawberries Recipe

If you are craving a brunch dish that feels both indulgent and bursting with fresh flavor, this Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast Casserole with Strawberries Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together the cozy richness of creamy cheese tucked inside layers of tender French toast, all topped with juicy macerated strawberries that add a bright, sweet contrast. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, fluffy, and fruity that will have everyone asking for seconds at your breakfast or brunch table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient here plays a key role in making this dish wonderfully balanced—whether it’s the cream cheese for smoothness, fresh strawberries for a pop of vibrant color and natural sweetness, or simple sandwich bread that makes the texture just right. Trust me, these essentials come together to create something truly magical and comforting.

• Butter: Used for greasing the pan and dotting on top to create a golden, crispy crust.
• Cream cheese (250 g / 8oz, room temperature): Provides the luscious, creamy filling that makes this casserole decadently rich.
• Sugar (white, 1/3 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese mixture perfectly without overpowering the dish.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a lovely aroma and enhances the flavors.
• Egg (1 for filling, 4 for egg mixture): Helps bind the filling and soak the bread, creating a custardy texture throughout.
• Lemon juice (2 tbsp): Adds a hint of brightness to balance the cream cheese.
• Milk (3/4 cup + 2 tbsp, low fat or full fat): Perfuses the bread with a rich custard, keeping it moist and tender.
• Sugar (white, 3 tbsp): Sweetens the egg and milk custard soak for the bread.
• Salt (a pinch): Enhances the overall flavors.
• Fresh sandwich bread (12 slices, crusts removed): Soft, fresh bread soaks up the custard beautifully without falling apart.
• Diced butter (2 tbsp, optional): Dotted on top for a buttery golden finish.
• Brown sugar (2 tbsp, optional): Sprinkled on top to give a caramelized sweetness and texture.
• Fresh strawberries (1 punnet, sliced): Adds a fresh, juicy element that complements the rich casserole.
• Sugar (1 tbsp for strawberries): Macerates the strawberries for a syrupy topping that’s pure bliss.

How to Make Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast Casserole with Strawberries Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 180C/350F and generously buttering your loaf tin (about 4″ x 8″ in size). The butter ensures your French toast casserole won’t stick and it helps develop that irresistible golden crust on baking.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Beat together the cream cheese, 1/3 cup sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Then add one egg and lemon juice, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. This filling is the heart of the dish – silky, tangy, and rich – that creamy layer you’ll want to savor in every bite.

Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk the remaining four eggs, milk, 3 tablespoons sugar, and a pinch of salt. This custard blend is what soaks into the bread, turning it wonderfully soft and custardy while baking.

Step 4: Dip the Bread

Dip two slices of bread into the egg mixture. Since you’re using fresh bread, it soaks up the custard quickly, which is perfect for creating that soft but structured texture we want in the casserole.

Step 5: Build the Layers

Line the bottom of the buttered loaf tin with the egg-soaked bread slices. Trim pieces as needed to fill the gaps so the base is fully covered. Repeat this to create three layers of bread—this forms a stable and sturdy base for the filling.

Step 6: Add the Cream Cheese Filling and More Bread

Spread the entire cream cheese mixture evenly over the bread layers. Then repeat the egg-dipped bread layers on top – two more layers this time. This layering technique ensures every forkful has creamy cheese and fluffy bread combined.

Step 7: Butter and Sugar Topping

Dot the top surface with the diced butter and sprinkle on the brown sugar if you like a caramelized crust. These additions create a beautiful golden finish with a slight crunchy contrast that makes every bite extra special.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole for about 40 minutes until golden and puffed. Keep an eye at the 30-minute mark, and if the top is already nicely browned, cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning while the center finishes baking.

Step 9: Rest and Cool

Once baked, let the casserole rest for 15 minutes in the tin before turning it out onto a cooling rack. This rest time helps everything set up perfectly, so your slices hold their shape when you serve.

Step 10: Macerate the Strawberries

While the casserole cools, toss the sliced strawberries with 1 tablespoon sugar. Let them sit and macerate for a few minutes until they become juicy and syrupy. This fresh topping adds a beautiful acidic sweetness that balances the richness brilliantly.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice the casserole and serve with a generous spoonful of the macerated strawberries on top. This finishing touch not only looks stunning but elevates the dish to something truly unforgettable.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast Casserole with Strawberries Recipe

Garnishes

Besides the macerated strawberries, a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of pure maple syrup makes excellent accompaniments. Fresh mint leaves can also add a pop of color and a subtle refreshing note that balances the creamy richness.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp bacon or breakfast sausages if you want something savory alongside. For a light option, serve with a fresh, citrusy fruit salad to keep the meal bright and lively.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for single servings, making it ideal for special brunch gatherings. You can also layer additional fruits like blueberries or peaches between the bread slices for extra variations. Adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns it into a dreamy dessert, too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The casserole keeps well and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.

Freezing

You can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick breakfast fix.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at low heat to keep the crust crisp and the inside warm and tender. Microwave reheating works too but may make the bread a little softer.

FAQs

Can I use different bread types for this casserole?

Absolutely! While sandwich bread is ideal for soaking up the custard without falling apart, brioche or challah can add even more richness and flavor if you want to indulge.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives made from nuts or soy. Choose a milk substitute like almond or oat milk, and check all ingredients to keep it dairy-free.

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Definitely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning for a stress-free breakfast or brunch.

How long will leftovers stay fresh in the fridge?

Leftovers should stay fresh and delicious for about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What other fruits go well with the casserole?

Besides strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, sliced peaches, or even banana slices work beautifully. Feel free to mix and match based on your favorite fresh fruits and seasonal availability.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast Casserole with Strawberries Recipe that makes brunch feel like a celebration. Its layers of creamy, custardy bread and fresh fruit create warmth and comfort that’s perfect for weekends or special occasions. I encourage you to try it soon—you’ll love sharing this crowd-pleaser with family and friends as much as I enjoy making it myself!

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