Make Ahead French Toast With Strawberry Sauce
Make ahead French toast with a creamy cheese filling and fresh strawberry topping, perfect for brunch gatherings and weekend indulgence with sweet and rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange half of the challah bread in a lightly greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Sprinkle the bread with cream cheese pieces and top with the remaining bread.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, half and half, melted butter, and maple syrup.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and cheese layers.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 8 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake covered for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 20 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Serve warm topped with sliced fresh strawberries.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the egg mixture. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. You can also use brioche or a gluten-free bread if you have dietary restrictions. This dish is perfect for brunch or a festive breakfast gathering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the French toast warm with the strawberry sauce on top, and consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness. It pairs beautifully with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a hearty breakfast. You might also enjoy it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a serving of Potato Salad From Grandma Noyes to balance the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Make Ahead French Toast With Strawberry Sauce contains roughly 1219 calories, with 13g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 102g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (49% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 775mg per serving (34% 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 French toast the night before?
Yes, this dish is designed to be made ahead. Prepare it up to the point of baking, cover it, and let it chill in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture fully, resulting in a more flavorful and moist French toast.
What can I use instead of strawberries for the sauce?
If strawberries aren't in season, you can use other berries like blueberries or raspberries. Alternatively, you could make a sauce using canned peaches or even a compote with apples, which would add a delightful twist to the dish.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Certainly! You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, use almond or coconut milk instead of half and half, and choose a non-dairy butter substitute. This will allow you to enjoy the dish while adhering to a dairy-free diet.
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).