Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast

The Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast is a delightful brunch dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines buttery croissants, creamy filling, and fresh strawberries for a visually appealing and delicious treat. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also allows you to enjoy the flavors of a classic French toast with a twist. Serve it warm with whipped cream and maple syrup for an unforgettable experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the night before for a stress-free brunch.
• Elegant Presentation: The colorful layers of strawberry and cream make this dish a standout.
• Versatile Flavor: Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert!
• Kid-Approved: Kids will love the sweet filling and fun presentation.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday ingredients that are easy to find.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast, you’ll need some essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Large shallow dish
• Whisk
• Ziplock bag
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and prevents any mess in your oven.
• Large shallow dish: Perfect for soaking the croissants evenly in the egg mixture.

Ingredients

The perfect (make ahead) brunch entrée…and super pretty with whipped cream and berries!

Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs, beaten
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 tablespoon, plus 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 tablespoons St. Germain (elderflower liquor) (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 6-8 small-day-old croissants
– 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
– 1/3 cup high quality strawberry jam
– 3 tablespoons melted salted butter, plus more for the pan
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons real maple syrup
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced horizontally
– whipped cream and maple syrup, for serving

For the Filling

• Cream cheese: Provides a rich base.
• Strawberry jam: Adds sweetness and fruitiness.

For the Topping

• Fresh strawberries: Brightens up the dish.
• Whipped cream: Adds a light finish.

How to Make Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375° F. Grease a baking sheet with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Egg Mixture

In a large shallow dish:
1. Whisk together the eggs, milk, St. Germain (if using), vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Fill the Croissants

For each croissant:
1. Make a 1-inch slit at the top to create space inside without cutting through completely.
2. In a bowl, stir together the cream cheese and strawberry jam gently to leave streaks of color.
3. Spoon this mixture into a ziplock bag and snip off one corner.
4. Squeeze about two tablespoons of filling into each croissant.

Step 4: Soak Croissants

Dip each filled croissant into the egg mixture:
1. Let them soak for about one minute on each side.
2. Arrange half of them on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake Croissants

Brush each croissant with some leftover egg batter:
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Add Sweet Topping

In a small saucepan:
1. Melt together butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup.
2. Spoon this mixture over each croissant after initial baking.
3. Return to oven for another 10 minutes until caramelized.

Step 7: Serve

Toss fresh strawberries with remaining St. Germain, vanilla extract, and maple syrup:
Serve warm topped with whipped cream, berries, and extra maple syrup if desired! Enjoy your delicious Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast!

How to Serve Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast

Serving Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast is an opportunity to impress your guests with both flavor and presentation. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your brunch experience.

Classic Toppings

• Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that complements the richness of the croissants.
• Fresh Strawberries: Sliced strawberries not only enhance the dish’s appearance but also add a fresh and fruity bite.

Flavor Boosters

• Maple Syrup: Drizzling real maple syrup over the top brings a sweet, natural flavor that pairs perfectly with the strawberries.
• Powdered Sugar: A sprinkle of powdered sugar can create a beautiful finish and an extra touch of sweetness.

Fun Additions

• Nuts: Chopped almonds or walnuts can provide a crunchy contrast to the soft croissants.
• Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and a refreshing taste to balance the sweetness.

How to Perfect Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast

To ensure your Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Day-Old Croissants: Slightly stale croissants absorb more egg mixture without becoming soggy.
• Mix Well: Ensure the cream cheese and strawberry jam mixture is well combined for even distribution in each croissant.
• Don’t Rush the Baking: Allowing the croissants to bake until golden creates a delightful crispiness on the outside.
• Let Them Rest Before Serving: Giving your baked croissants a few minutes to rest helps set them and makes for easier serving.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast

Pairing side dishes with your Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast can elevate your brunch. Here are some excellent options.

1. Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon balances the sweetness of the French toast perfectly.
2. Sausage Links: Savory sausage links provide hearty protein that complements this sweet dish.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can lighten up your meal while adding vibrant colors.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and berries offers a healthy, creamy contrast.
5. Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds brings in nutrition while being visually appealing.
6. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns add texture and savory goodness that pairs nicely with sweet flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Overfilling the croissants: Too much filling can cause the mixture to ooze out during baking. Use about 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese and jam mixture per croissant for a balanced flavor.
• Skipping the egg soak: Not allowing the croissants to soak in the egg mixture can lead to dry toast. Make sure to dip each croissant for at least one minute on each side to absorb enough liquid.
• Using fresh croissants: Fresh croissants can become soggy when baked. Opt for day-old or slightly stale croissants for optimal texture.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking without preheating can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking and browning.
• Ignoring storage guidelines: Failing to store leftovers properly can affect taste and texture. Follow storage instructions carefully to maintain freshness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast

• Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 30 seconds intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast?

Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast is a delicious brunch dish made from croissants filled with cream cheese and strawberry jam, then soaked in an egg mixture and baked until golden brown.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes! You can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Just thaw them beforehand and drain any excess moisture.

How do I customize my Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast?

You can customize this dish by adding different fruits such as raspberries or blueberries, or by using flavored cream cheeses like vanilla or chocolate.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it in the morning for a hassle-free brunch.

Final Thoughts

Baked Strawberry and Cream Stuffed Croissant French Toast is a delightful dish perfect for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts. Its sweet filling pairs wonderfully with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. Feel free to customize it with different jams or fruits to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!