Beef French Toast With Cheesecake Essence offers a lavish spin on traditional French toast. Combining sweet and savory flavors, this dish is perfect for special breakfasts or brunches. The recipe features a creamy strawberry cheesecake filling sandwiched between slices of rich brioche or challah bread, lightly soaked in an egg mixture, and cooked until golden brown.
INGREDIENTS- Cream cheese: 8 oz, softened
- Powdered sugar: 1/4 cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Fresh strawberries: 1/2 cup, diced
- Brioche or challah bread: 8 slices
- Eggs: 4 large
- Milk: 1/2 cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Butter or oil: For frying
- Maple syrup: For serving
- Additional fresh strawberries: Diced, for garnish
- Powdered sugar: For dusting, optional
- Step 1:
- In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in the diced strawberries and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Step 3:
- Spread about 2 tablespoons of the strawberry cheesecake filling onto one slice of bread, then top with another to form a sandwich. Repeat with remaining slices and filling.
- Step 4:
- Dip each sandwich briefly into the egg mixture, ensuring it's thoroughly coated.
- Step 5:
- Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the sandwiches until golden brown on both sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
- Step 6:
- Serve hot with maple syrup, extra strawberries, and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet or toaster oven for crispness.
- For a creamier filling, use more cream cheese and fewer strawberries.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the egg mixture for a warm spice note.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef’s Tip: Use stale brioche for better absorption of the egg mixture.
This French toast stands out for its unique combination of sweet and savory flavors, enhanced by the cheesecake filling and fresh strawberries.
Making It Your OwnTry adding chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling or a drizzle of caramel on top for an extra indulgent treat.
FAQsCan I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them well before mixing into the cream cheese.
What bread works best?
Brioche or challah bread is recommended for its soft, rich texture.
Can I make this dish ahead?
The filling can be made ahead and refrigerated, but assemble and cook the French toast fresh for the best results.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese and milk alternatives for a dairy-free version.