This decadent, bakery-style breakfast stack features thick slices of golden French toast layered with a rich cream cheese filling, sweet strawberry compote, fresh berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar.
Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 8 thick slices of brioche or challah bread (about 1 inch thick)
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for the skillet)
For the Filling & Topping:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened at room temperature
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1.5 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (plus whole berries for garnish)
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam or compote
- Pure maple syrup for serving
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and lemon juice together using a hand mixer until completely smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Prepare the Custard: In a wide, shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Dip the Bread: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a tablespoon of butter. Quickly dip each slice of brioche into the custard mixture for a few seconds on each side, allowing it to absorb some liquid without becoming soggy.
- Cook the French Toast: Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with the remaining slices, adding more butter as needed.
- Assemble the Stack: Place one slice of cooked French toast on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese filling over it, followed by a layer of strawberry jam and fresh sliced strawberries. Top with another slice of French toast to create a sandwich or multi-tiered stack.
- Garnish: Add a dollop of cream cheese, extra fresh strawberries, and fresh mint leaves on top of the stack.
- Serve: Dust heavily with powdered sugar, drizzle warm maple syrup all over the top, and serve immediately!