Strawberries and Cream French Toast
Strawberries and Cream French Toast is a sweet and creamy breakfast treat that feels like a little bit of sunshine on your plate. The golden, fluffy French toast is topped…
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Strawberries and Cream French Toast is a sweet and creamy breakfast treat that feels like a little bit of sunshine on your plate. The golden, fluffy French toast is topped with fresh, juicy strawberries and a dollop of rich cream that melts into every bite. It’s a perfect mix of warm toast and cool, fresh fruit that makes mornings feel extra special.
I love making this on slow weekend mornings when there’s time to savor breakfast and really enjoy those simple flavors. The strawberries add just enough brightness and freshness to cut through the creaminess, and I always try to use the ripest berries I can find. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top gives it a nice touch, and I like to pour a little maple syrup over everything for that perfect finish.
This dish is such a crowd-pleaser when friends come over, and it’s great for special occasions or just to treat yourself. Sometimes I imagine sitting by a sunny window with a cup of coffee and this strawberry-filled French toast — it just feels like a happy start to the day. Plus, it’s easy to make but feels fancy enough to share around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Brioche and challah are rich and soft, perfect for soaking egg mixture. If you can’t find these, thick slices of white sandwich bread or Texas toast work well too.
Heavy Cream: This makes the whipped cream thick and fluffy. For a lighter option, try whipped coconut cream or Greek yogurt. Powdered sugar adds sweetness but you can adjust to taste.
Strawberries: Fresh and ripe strawberries give the best flavor. If out of season, frozen berries work—just thaw and drain first to avoid sogginess.
Vanilla & Cinnamon: These add warm, comforting flavor. You can skip cinnamon if you prefer, but vanilla is key to a sweet aroma.
How Do You Get Perfectly Fluffy Yet Crisp French Toast?
Balancing fluffiness and crispiness is all about soaking time and cooking temperature.
- Soak bread just 20 seconds per side—this keeps it soft inside without falling apart.
- Cook on medium heat to brown the outside slowly and avoid burning.
- Use butter for a rich, golden crust. Add more if needed while cooking.
- Don’t crowd the pan; give each slice space for even cooking.
- If your bread is very fresh and soft, toast it lightly before soaking to prevent sogginess.
These little tips help you get that perfect texture on every slice every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick skillet or griddle – cooks the French toast evenly and prevents sticking.
- Mixing bowls – one for egg mixture, another for whipping cream comfortably.
- Whisk – great for blending eggs and milk smoothly and whipping cream to soft peaks.
- Spatula – helps flip the toast gently without breaking it.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your recipe balanced and tasty.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap strawberries with fresh blueberries or raspberries for a different fruity twist that pairs well with cream.
- Add a sprinkle of nutmeg to the egg mixture for a warm spice note, especially nice in cooler months.
- Mix mascarpone cheese into the whipped cream for a richer, slightly tangy flavor.
- Top with toasted almonds or pecans for a bit of crunch and a nutty contrast.
How to Make Strawberries and Cream French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the French Toast:
- 6 thick slices of brioche or challah bread
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Whipped Cream and Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for a leisurely breakfast or special brunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until everything is well mixed. This will be your soaking mixture for the bread.
2. Cook the French Toast:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of the butter. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture and let it soak for about 20 seconds on each side. Place the soaked bread onto the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Add the remaining butter as needed while cooking. Once cooked, transfer the bread to a plate.
3. Whip the Cream:
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with the granulated sugar until soft peaks form. To make it a little sweeter and thicker, stir in 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar.
4. Assemble the French Toast:
Spread a generous layer of whipped cream on one piece of French toast, then top with a good amount of sliced strawberries. Place another slice of toast on top and repeat the layering with whipped cream and strawberries. Finish with the last slice of French toast on top.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Add some more sliced strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream on top of the stack. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if you like. Dust the entire dish lightly with powdered sugar, then drizzle with maple syrup to your taste.
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Strawberries and Cream French Toast!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid extra moisture, which can make the French toast soggy.
What Bread Works Best for French Toast?
Thick slices of brioche or challah are ideal because they soak up the egg mixture without falling apart. If you don’t have these, use thick white sandwich bread or Texas toast as a good alternative.
Can I Make the Whipped Cream Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can whip the cream a few hours ahead and keep it chilled in the fridge. Give it a quick whisk before serving to refresh its texture.
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Store any leftover French toast and whipped cream separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat the French toast gently in a toaster or oven for best texture, and add fresh whipped cream and strawberries before serving again.
