Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the sandwich base
01 -
8 thick slices of brioche or challah bread
02 -
2 tablespoons butter, for the pan
→ For the filling
03 -
4 ounces cream cheese, left out to soften
04 -
2 tablespoons powdered sugar, plus extra for the final touch
05 -
1/2 cup fresh strawberries, cut into thin slices
06 -
1/4 cup strawberry preserves
→ For the coating
07 -
2 large eggs, straight from the fridge
08 -
3 tablespoons whole milk
# Instructions:
01 -
Grab a bowl and mix your softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until it's smooth and fluffy. A fork works fine for this - just keep smooshing and stirring until all the little lumps are gone.
02 -
Lay out four slices of your bread and spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on each one. Don't go all the way to the edges or it might squeeze out when cooking.
03 -
Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the cream cheese. Then dollop about a tablespoon of strawberry preserves over each. The preserves add that extra punch of flavor that makes these special.
04 -
Put the remaining bread slices on top and press down gently to seal them. You want them snug but not so squished that all the filling comes out.
05 -
In a shallow dish that's big enough for your sandwiches, beat together the eggs and milk until well combined. This is basically a French toast batter that will give your sandwiches that crispy golden crust.
06 -
Carefully dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, giving it a few seconds on each side to soak in. Make sure all sides get coated, even the edges.
07 -
Heat up your skillet over medium heat and melt a tablespoon of butter until it starts to bubble. Cook two sandwiches at a time, about 2-3 minutes per side until they're golden brown and crispy. Add more butter for the second batch.
08 -
Transfer your fried sandwiches to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any extra butter. While they're still warm, dust with a light shower of powdered sugar, just like you would for French toast.
# Notes:
01 -
These indulgent sandwiches walk the line between breakfast and dessert. They're perfect for a special brunch or as a unique dessert served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
02 -
Feel free to swap the strawberries for other berries like raspberries or blueberries depending on what's in season.
03 -
For extra decadence, serve with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream.