Chunky Cream Cheese French Toast
Creamy French toast with chunks of bread and cream cheese, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for brunch gatherings, offering rich flavors and a comforting texture that suits all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Cube the French bread and cream cheese.
- Place the cubed bread and cream cheese in the greased dish.
- In a blender or with beaters, mix eggs, milk, maple syrup, and melted margarine or butter.
- Pour the mixture over the bread and cream cheese in the dish.
- Cover with Saran Wrap and refrigerate overnight or for several hours.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C), uncovered, for 40 minutes or until golden brown and puffy.
- Serve hot with additional maple syrup.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a flavored cream cheese like strawberry or chive. If French bread isn't available, brioche or challah makes an excellent substitute. Ensure the bread is slightly stale for better absorption of the egg mixture. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract can elevate the flavor. For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the French toast hot, drizzled with additional maple syrup for sweetness. Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries make a refreshing side that pairs beautifully with Chunky Cream Cheese French Toast. For a complete brunch, consider serving it alongside Cole Slaw Or Potato Salad(To Keep On Hand) for a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chunky Cream Cheese French Toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but reheats well.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chunky Cream Cheese French Toast contains roughly 736 calories, with 4g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is a good source of calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 587mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish the night before. After assembling it in the baking dish, cover it with Saran Wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to soak in the egg mixture, enhancing the flavor and texture when baked the next day.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, consider using ricotta cheese or a vegan cream cheese. These substitutes will change the flavor slightly, but they will still provide a creamy texture that works well in this recipe.
How do I know when the French toast is done baking?
The French toast is done when it is golden brown on top and puffy in texture. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).