Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake is a rich and decadent breakfast casserole that’s perfect for weekend brunches, special occasions, or holiday mornings. With layers of fluffy bread, sweet cream cheese, and juicy strawberries soaked in a vanilla custard, this dish is both comforting and indulgent. The make-ahead option makes it convenient and stress-free, allowing you more time to enjoy with family or guests.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
bread (such as French bread or brioche)cream cheesestrawberries (fresh or frozen)sugarvanilla extracteggsmilkheavy creamcinnamonpowdered sugar (for dusting)maple syrup (for serving)
directions
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with sugar until smooth.
In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
Layer half of the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish.
Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the bread.
Add half of the sliced strawberries evenly over the cream cheese.
Repeat with the remaining bread, cream cheese, and strawberries.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the entire dish, pressing down gently to help the bread soak up the liquid.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
Let it cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and serving with maple syrup.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 8-10 people.Preparation time: 20 minutesChilling time: 2 hours to overnightBaking time: 45-50 minutesTotal time: approximately 3 hours (including chilling)
Variations
Substitute blueberries, raspberries, or mixed berries for strawberries.
Add a layer of chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for crunch.
Use flavored cream cheese like strawberry or honey walnut for added depth.
Sprinkle with streusel topping before baking for a crumbly texture.
Make it dairy-free with plant-based milk and cream cheese alternatives.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.To freeze, wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s designed for overnight prep. Assemble it the night before and bake in the morning.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw and drain them well before adding to prevent excess moisture.
Do I have to use cream cheese?
Cream cheese adds richness, but you can omit it or substitute with ricotta or mascarpone.
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, brioche, challah, or sourdough work well.
How do I know when it’s done?
The top should be golden, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free bread.
Why is my bake soggy?
Make sure the bread has soaked properly and avoid overusing fruit or liquid.
Is this sweet enough without syrup?
It has a mild sweetness, but maple syrup adds an extra touch.
Can I add chocolate?
Yes, chocolate chips or chunks make a delicious addition.
What’s the best way to serve it?
Warm, dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with maple syrup.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake is a luxurious yet easy-to-make breakfast or brunch favorite that brings together the creamy, fruity, and custardy elements in one dish. With its make-ahead convenience and irresistible flavor, it’s a perfect choice for both everyday indulgence and special celebrations.
Print
Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: Overnight prep + ~1 hr 30 min
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A make‑ahead, crowd‑pleasing breakfast casserole layering bread cubes with fresh strawberries and cream cheese, soaked in a sweet egg‑custard, then baked until golden and custardy inside.
Ingredients
- 10 oz challah or French bread, cut into large chunks
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 6 oz light cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 6 large eggs
- 1½ cups almond milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- Let bread stale overnight or toast at 175 °F for 10–15 min until firm.
- Grease a 9×13″ casserole dish. Layer half the bread chunks evenly.
- Scatter sliced strawberries over the bread, reserving a handful for topping.
- Beat cream cheese with 2 tsp sugar and lemon juice until smooth; dollop over strawberries.
- Top with remaining bread chunks.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, remaining sugar, almond milk, vanilla, and salt until blended; pour over casserole, pressing bread down to soak.
- Cover and refrigerate at least a few hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350 °F. Let casserole sit while oven heats.
- Bake covered for 20 min, then uncovered for 40–45 min until set and golden.
- Let rest 10 min before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For best texture, use slightly stale or toasted bread to absorb custard without becoming soggy.
- Can swap almond milk for dairy milk.
- Make early morning easier by prepping night before.
- Serve with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or whipped cream.