Deluxe Strawberry French Toast
Deluxe Strawberry French Toast combines sweet strawberries, crunchy almonds, and creamy cheese, making it a delightful brunch dish perfect for special occasions or weekend mornings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the strawberries, reserving the liquid.
- Add water to the reserved liquid to measure 1 cup.
- Combine sugar and cornstarch in a saucepan.
- Gradually add the reserved liquid to the saucepan.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is clear and thickened.
- Stir in the strawberries and sliced almonds.
- Spread softened cream cheese mixed with sugar and vanilla on slices of Italian bread.
- Dip the assembled bread slices into beaten eggs mixed with milk and ground nutmeg.
- Cook the dipped bread slices on a griddle or skillet until golden brown on both sides.
- Serve the French toast topped with the strawberry mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative. If fresh strawberries are in season, swap them in for a fresher taste. For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the egg mixture. Make sure to let the bread soak up the egg mixture for a few minutes for a custardy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Deluxe Strawberry French Toast with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup. A side of crispy bacon or sausage complements the sweetness perfectly. For a refreshing touch, consider pairing with a fruit salad. This dish also pairs beautifully with Aunt Clara'S Chocolate Pie for dessert!
Storage & Reheating
Leftover French toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a toaster oven or skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For best results, avoid microwaving as it can make the toast soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deluxe Strawberry French Toast contains roughly 1308 calories, with 5g protein, 229g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), iron (16% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 486mg per serving (21% 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 use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries can be used in place of frozen. Just wash and slice them, then combine with sugar to macerate before cooking. This will enhance their natural sweetness and create a delicious topping.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the strawberry mixture and cream cheese spread the night before. Assemble the French toast in the morning for a quick breakfast. Alternatively, you can also cook the French toast ahead and reheat it as needed.
What can I substitute for the Italian loaf bread?
If you don't have Italian loaf bread, any sturdy bread such as challah, brioche, or even whole grain bread works well. Just ensure the bread is thick enough to hold the custard without falling apart.
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).