Go Back

Creamy Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake

A delicious and creamy French toast bake featuring fluffy challah bread, fresh strawberries, and a rich cream cheese custard, perfect for brunch or meal prep.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 8 slices Challah Bread Soft and fluffy; perfect for soaking up the creamy custard.
  • 6 large Large Eggs Provides structure and richness to the bake.
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Adds creaminess and depth of flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Enhances the luxurious texture of the dish.
  • 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar Balances the flavors and sweetness of strawberries.
  • 1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract Infuses a warm, comforting flavor.
  • 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon Adds a fragrant spice note, enhancing overall flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp Salt Brings out the sweetness and balances flavors.
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Offers creaminess and richness, making it taste indulgent.
  • 1 cup Fresh Strawberries Juicy and vibrant, they add freshness and color.
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice Optional, brightens the flavor of the strawberries.
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar Optional, adds a deeper sweetness and caramel notes.
  • 1/2 cup Chopped Pecans or Walnuts Optional, for added crunch and flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter Used for greasing the baking dish and adds flavor.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with melted butter.
  • Cut the challah bread into 1-inch cubes and place them evenly in the baking dish.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
  • Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring they soak well.
  • If using, toss the sliced strawberries in a bowl with lemon juice and set aside.

Cooking & Assembling

  • Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the bread mixture.
  • Scatter the strawberries over the top.
  • If desired, sprinkle brown sugar and chopped nuts over the mixture.
  • Cover the baking dish with foil and let it sit for 30 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden.

Serving

  • Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
  • Dust with powdered sugar for a sweet touch.
  • Slice into squares and serve warm.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free bread. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes or overnight for creamier results. Store leftovers for up to 3 days.
Keyword Baked Pancake, Brunch Recipe, French Toast, Meal Prep, Strawberry Recipe