Strawberries and Cream French Toast
Strawberries and Cream French Toast is a sweet and fluffy treat that's perfect for a special breakfast or weekend brunch. The golden, soft bread gets soaked in a creamy custard…
By Ava
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Reading time: 5 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Strawberries and Cream French Toast is a sweet and fluffy treat that’s perfect for a special breakfast or weekend brunch. The golden, soft bread gets soaked in a creamy custard then cooked to perfection, topped with fresh, juicy strawberries and a drizzle of sweet cream. It’s simple but feels like a little celebration every time you make it.
I love making this French toast on lazy mornings when I have time to enjoy the process and then sit down with a warm plate in front of me. The mix of warm custard-soaked bread and the cool cream with bright strawberries is such a nice balance. I usually add a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch that makes the flavors pop even more.
One of my favorite ways to serve this is with a little extra cream or even a handful of toasted nuts for crunch. It’s a dish that feels like a treat but isn’t too complicated to whip up. Whenever I make it, everyone seems to smile a little wider, and I think that’s what really makes it special in my kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Brioche or challah are my favorites here because they soak up the custard well without falling apart. If you want, thick white or sourdough bread works too. Just avoid thin or very dense bread.
Eggs, Milk & Cream: These create the rich custard for soaking the bread. Whole milk and heavy cream add creaminess. For a lighter version, use just milk or a dairy alternative like oat or almond milk with a splash of coconut cream.
Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries make all the difference in taste and texture. If fresh aren’t available, frozen thawed berries can work, but drain any excess liquid to avoid soggy toast.
Whipped Cream: This adds a light, fluffy touch between the layers. You can use store-bought or make your own. For a dairy-free option, try coconut whipped cream.
How Can I Get the Perfect Soak and Cook on French Toast?
Soaking the bread just right is key so it’s moist inside but not falling apart. Here’s how I do it:
- Whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt well to make a smooth custard.
- Dip each slice quickly, about 10-15 seconds each side, so it absorbs but doesn’t get soggy.
- Preheat your pan to medium, add butter, and cook each slice 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Use medium heat to cook through without burning the outside.
Patience here makes a huge difference — don’t rush cooking or soaking. It helps the toast stay tender and flavorful.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Nonstick skillet or griddle – perfect for even browning without sticking or burning your French toast.
- Mixing bowl – big enough to whisk together eggs, milk, and cream smoothly.
- Whisk – helps mix the custard well, so the eggs don’t scramble when cooking.
- Spatula – makes flipping the toast easy and keeps it intact.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise amounts of milk, cream, and vanilla for consistent results.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Blueberries or raspberries instead of strawberries for a different fresh berry flavor.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or orange zest to the custard for extra warmth and brightness.
- Try spreading cream cheese or mascarpone between layers instead of whipped cream for richness and tang.
- Top with toasted almonds or walnuts to add crunch and a nutty contrast to the creamy texture.
Strawberries and Cream French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the French Toast:
- 6 thick slices of brioche or challah bread
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, for cooking
For the Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup whipped cream (plus extra for topping)
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You can enjoy it right away—no resting or chilling time needed, making it perfect for a lovely, quick breakfast or brunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Custard Mixture:
In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt until everything is smooth and combined.
2. Cook the French Toast:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, coating both sides but don’t soak too long so it doesn’t get soggy. Place the soaked bread on the skillet and cook about 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Add more butter if you need to for cooking the rest of the slices.
3. Assemble and Serve:
Start by placing one slice of French toast on your plate. Spread a little whipped cream on top, then add a generous handful of sliced strawberries. Repeat layers as you’d like, usually two or three layers make a pretty stack. Finish with a dollop of whipped cream and a whole strawberry on top for a pretty garnish. Drizzle with maple syrup and dust with powdered sugar to make it extra special. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries?
Yes, you can! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using to prevent the French toast from becoming soggy.
What Bread Works Best for French Toast?
Thick slices of brioche or challah are ideal because they absorb the custard well and stay soft. If you don’t have those, thick white or sourdough bread can work too.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the custard mixture the night before and refrigerate it. However, for the best texture, cook the French toast fresh just before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or toaster oven to keep it crispy.