Pin it
This decadent strawberry cheesecake sandwich transforms ordinary bread into a crispy, creamy, berry-filled delight that works equally well as an indulgent breakfast or impressive dessert. The contrast between the golden toasted exterior and the luscious filling creates an irresistible treat that comes together in just minutes.
I first made these sandwiches for a Sunday brunch with friends, and they've become my signature dish whenever someone needs cheering up. The way the berries melt into the cream cheese during cooking creates little pockets of sweet joy.
Ingredients
- Brioche or challah bread: Provides the perfect soft yet sturdy base for soaking up the egg mixture without falling apart
- Cream cheese: Creates the signature cheesecake flavor and velvety texture that melts in your mouth
- Powdered sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the filling while incorporating smoothly
- Fresh strawberries: Bring essential brightness and natural sweetness plus beautiful color
- Strawberry jam: Intensifies the berry flavor and adds a glossy sweetness to each bite
- Large eggs: Help create that custardy French toast exterior when fried
- Milk: Thins the egg mixture for proper coating while adding richness
- Butter: Essential for achieving that perfectly golden crispy exterior with incomparable flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the filling:
- Mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until completely smooth with no lumps. Take your time here for the creamiest result, and make sure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Assemble the sandwiches:
- Spread a generous layer of cream cheese mixture on four bread slices, covering the entire surface. Arrange thinly sliced strawberries in a single layer, then add a spoonful of jam spread evenly over the berries. Top with remaining bread slices, pressing gently to seal.
- Create the coating:
- Whisk eggs and milk together in a shallow dish until completely combined. The mixture should be thin enough to coat but thick enough to cling to the bread. A wide dish makes dipping easier.
- Dip the sandwiches:
- Working one at a time, carefully place each sandwich in the egg mixture for about 10 seconds per side. Allow excess to drip off before transferring to a clean plate. The bread should be saturated but not soggy.
- Cook to golden perfection:
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and slightly bubbling. Add sandwiches without crowding the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until deeply golden. Flip and repeat on the second side, adjusting heat if browning too quickly.
- Finish and serve:
- Transfer to paper towels to absorb excess butter, then dust generously with powdered sugar while still warm. For maximum visual appeal, cut diagonally to showcase the beautiful filling layers.
Pin it
These sandwiches remind me of my grandmother's strawberry shortcake but in a more portable form. She always insisted on using the ripest berries, and I still hear her voice reminding me that the quality of your ingredients determines the quality of your results.
Perfect Pairings
These indulgent sandwiches call for something to balance their richness. A simple side of fresh fruit provides refreshing contrast, while a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream makes them even more dessert worthy. For breakfast, serve with a tart citrus juice to cut through the richness.
Pin it
Storage and Reheating
While best enjoyed immediately, leftover sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, avoid the microwave which will make them soggy. Instead, place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or reheat in a skillet over medium low heat until warmed through.
Seasonal Adaptations
This versatile recipe works wonderfully with whatever fruit is in season. Try peaches and a touch of cinnamon in summer, blackberries with lemon zest in late summer, or sautéed apples with caramel in fall. The cream cheese base provides the perfect canvas for countless flavor variations throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, you can use any soft bread like white sandwich bread or whole wheat. However, brioche or challah works best for a rich, slightly sweet flavor.
- → Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
It's best to enjoy them fresh, but you can prepare the cream cheese mixture and slice the strawberries in advance. Assemble and fry when ready to serve.
- → What can I use instead of strawberry jam?
You can substitute strawberry jam with other options like raspberry, apricot, or blueberry for a unique twist.
- → Can these be made dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the cream cheese with a non-dairy alternative and use plant-based milk in the egg mixture to make it dairy-free.
- → What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers on a skillet or in an oven at a low temperature until they are warmed through while maintaining their crispy texture.