Ingredients:
For the French Toast:
- 8 slices of thick-cut bread
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Butter for cooking
For the Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
For Topping:
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Additional fresh berries
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to create the French toast batter.
- In another bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over 4 slices of bread. Top with fresh berries and then place the remaining bread slices on top to create sandwiches.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a pat of butter.
- Dip each stuffed sandwich into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides.
- Cook the stuffed French toast sandwiches on the skillet until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove from the heat and let them rest for a minute. Cut diagonally for a more appealing presentation.
- Drizzle with maple syrup, sprinkle with powdered sugar, and garnish with additional fresh berries.
Important Points:
- Bread Selection: Choose a sturdy, thick-cut bread like brioche or challah to ensure the French toast holds up well to the stuffing.
- Cream Cheese Softening: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy spreading and blending.
- Berries: Opt for a mix of colorful and flavorful berries to add a burst of freshness to the dish.
- Cooking Temperature: Maintain medium heat to avoid burning the French toast while ensuring it cooks through.
FAQs:
- Can I prepare the stuffed French toast in advance?
- Yes, you can assemble the stuffed French toast the night before and refrigerate it. Cook it in the morning for a quick breakfast.
- Can I use frozen berries?
- Fresh berries are recommended for better texture and flavor, but you can use thawed, drained frozen berries if fresh ones aren’t available.
- Any substitutions for cream cheese?
- Mascarpone or a sweetened ricotta can be used as alternatives to cream cheese.
- How do I reheat leftovers?
- Reheat in a toaster or oven to maintain the crispiness of the French toast. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Enjoy this indulgent breakfast treat that combines the richness of cream cheese and the sweetness of berries for a truly satisfying experience!