Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast Recipe
Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast is a decadent breakfast or brunch treat that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet flavors of strawberries and bananas, all encased in golden, buttery French toast. This indulgent dish is perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weekend breakfast.
Ingredients:
For the Stuffed French Toast:
- 8 slices thick-cut bread (such as brioche or challah)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 banana, sliced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for cooking
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 banana, sliced
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the French Toast:
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over 4 slices of bread.
- Layer the sliced strawberries and bananas on top of the cheesecake mixture.
- Top with the remaining 4 slices of bread to create sandwiches.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Dip the Sandwiches:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
- Dip each sandwich in the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated.
- Cook the French Toast:
- Place the dipped sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add more butter to the skillet as needed to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, toss the fresh strawberries and banana slices with granulated sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Remove the cooked French toast from the skillet and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Top with the fresh strawberry and banana mixture.
- Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while warm, with additional maple syrup or whipped cream if desired.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed French Toast:
- Bread Choice: Use thick-cut bread like brioche or challah for the best texture. It absorbs the egg mixture well without becoming soggy.
- Cream Cheese Filling: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing and spreading.
- Cooking Temperature: Cook the French toast over medium heat to ensure the inside is heated through without burning the outside.
Variations:
- Berry Mix: Substitute or add other berries like blueberries or raspberries to the filling for a different flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or granola to the cream cheese mixture for added texture.
- Spiced Up: Experiment with spices such as nutmeg or cardamom in the egg mixture for additional warmth and depth of flavor.
This Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast is a delightful and indulgent breakfast or brunch option that combines creamy, fruity, and sweet flavors in every bite. Enjoy this special treat with family and friends for a memorable meal!