Name: Cherry Cheesecake French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 slices challah bread; 0.5 cup cherry pie filling; 1 cup cream cheese (softened); 2 large eggs; 0.5 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

What is a Cherry Cheesecake French Toast? What’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re having dessert for breakfast? *totally* acceptable. When was the first time your mom would whip up French toast? Is this a thousand times better? What is the difference between a slice of creamy cheesecake and perfectly golden French fries? Is this a good idea?

What is a Cherry Cheesecake French Toast?

What is a French toast casserole? Why don’t we dip bread in eggs and milk? I’m layering it with a creamy, dreamy cheesecake filling studded with sweet, juicy cherries. Is it baked until golden brown and bubbly, then drizzled with a simple, yet irresistible glaze? What is your favorite slice of cherry cheesecake? Is it decadent, comforting, and totally worth waking up for? Is it easier to make a cheesecake?

Why do you like this recipe?

I’m not kidding when I say this Cherry Cheesecake French Toast is addictive. What I love about this recipe is how it manages to be both incredibly indulgent and delicious. What is so simple? Why are you hooked?

Flavor Explosion:What a perfect combination of cream cheese, sweet cherries, and custardy French toast. What is out of this world? The glaze seals the deal!
SurprisinglyDon’t let the “cheesecake” part scare you. It’s way easier than making an actual cheesecake. What is the best way to mix everything together and layer it in?
Budget FriendlyWhat are some of the basic ingredients in a kitchen? No need to break the bank for a fancy breakfast!
Versatile:Can you substitute cherries for other fruits like blueberries or raspberries? Chocolate chips (if you’re feeling *extra* decadent). What are some of the best ways to enjoy a slice straight from the fridge?

If you love French toast and cheesecake, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. Is the cherry cheesecake recipe similar to French toast? What is it like to be in a business that takes it to the next level? Is this a family favorite?

How do you make a French toast with cherry cheesecake?

Quick Overview

How do I make a French Toast with Cherry Cheesecake? What is a cheesecake filling? French toast batter, and bake it until golden and bubbly. The cheesecake filling seeps into the bread, creating this unbelievably rich texture. Don’t skip the glaze, it really brings everything together. How do I impress my friends without spending hours in the kitchen?

Ingredients

For the Main Batter: What is the difference between

What is the best way to use 6 large eggs?
I’ve used both whole milk and 2% milk with great results. Almond milk is a good source of protein.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adjust to your sweetness preference.
What is the best way to use pure vanilla extract?
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness.
1 loaf of challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch thick slices: 1 slice of bread. What are the best breads for a beginner? Just make sure it’s not too thin.

For the Filling:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened: 1 pound. Make sure it’s softened, otherwise you’ll end up with lumpy filling. I usually leave it out on the counter for an hour or so.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adjust to your liking.
What is the best way to bind egg filling together?
Is it safe to use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract?
1 can cherry pie filling: 1 (21 ounce) can. Can you use canned cherries for pie filling? I drain off some of the excess juice so it’s not too runny.

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar: Sift it for a smoother glaze.
2-3 tablespoons milk: Add gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Optional, but adds a nice touch.

What are the steps that

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. How do I make French toast stick? I also like to line the bottom with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside. How do you make sure everything is well combined so you don’t have any clumps of cinnamon? The whisking also incorporates air, which will make the French toast lighter and fluffier.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the Cream Cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Set aside. I use an electric mixer for this, but you can also do it by hand. Is cream cheese soft? Then, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine

Gently fold in the cherry pie filling into the cream cheese mixture. Don’t overmix! You want to keep some of the cherries whole.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

How do you dip bread in egg mixture? Don’t soak them for too long, or they’ll get soggy. I usually dip them for about 5-10 seconds per side.

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

Arrange half of the soaked bread slices in the prepared baking dish. Spread the cherry cheesecake filling evenly over the bread. Top with remaining soaked bread slices. The bread should be snug in the pan – it will help create a lovely baked texture.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set. To check if it’s done, insert a knife into the center. If it comes out clean, it is ready! If not, bake for a few more minutes.

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

Let the French toast cool before drizzling with the glaze. To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside. Add more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Step 9: Slice & Serve

Slice the Cherry Cheesecake French Toast into squares and serve warm. You can top it with whipped cream, fresh cherries, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Or just eat it plain! It’s delicious either way.

What to Serve It With

This Cherry Cheesecake French Toast is pretty amazing on its own, but here are some ideas for taking it to the next level:

For Breakfast: Serve with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a sweet and savory combination. A cup of strong coffee or a mimosa would be perfect!

For Brunch: Arrange the French toast on a pretty platter and garnish with fresh berries and a sprig of mint. Offer a variety of juices, like orange, grapefruit, and cranberry. My friends love it when I serve this at brunch!

As Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A glass of dessert wine would be a lovely pairing.

For Cozy Snacks: Curl up on the couch with a slice of French toast and a cup of hot cocoa or tea. This is my go-to on a chilly evening!

My family also loves to add a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top, like pecans or walnuts. It adds a nice crunch and nutty flavor. Sometimes I even add a drizzle of chocolate syrup for extra decadence. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different toppings!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cherry Cheesecake French Toast

Okay, so I’ve made this Cherry Cheesecake French Toast *a lot* over the years, and I’ve learned a few things along the way. Here are my top tips for making it perfect every time:

Bread Choice: Use a good quality bread that’s slightly stale. This will help it absorb the egg mixture without getting too soggy. Challah or brioche are my favorites, but any sturdy bread will work.

Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is *really* softened. This is crucial for a smooth and creamy filling. If it’s not soft enough, you’ll end up with lumps.

Cherry Pie Filling: Drain off some of the excess juice from the cherry pie filling. This will prevent the French toast from getting too soggy.

Soaking Time: Don’t soak the bread for too long! Just a few seconds per side is enough. You want the bread to be moist, but not waterlogged.

Baking Time: Keep an eye on the French toast while it’s baking. The baking time may vary depending on your oven. It’s done when it’s golden brown and the filling is set.

Glaze Consistency: Adjust the amount of milk in the glaze to reach your desired consistency. I like mine to be thick enough to coat the French toast, but not so thick that it’s hard to drizzle.

Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors! I’ve added a tablespoon of almond extract to the filling before, and it was absolutely delicious. You can also try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the egg mixture for a warm and spicy twist. The possibilities are endless!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have any leftover Cherry Cheesecake French Toast (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat it:

Room Temperature: You can leave the French toast at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it should be refrigerated.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to store it without the glaze, as the glaze can get sticky in the fridge.

Freezer Instructions: To freeze the French toast, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re storing the French toast, it’s best to add the glaze just before serving. This will prevent the glaze from getting sticky or melting.

To reheat the French toast, you can microwave it for a minute or two, or bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. It’s also delicious cold, straight from the fridge!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free bread and make sure all your other ingredients are gluten-free as well. You might need to adjust the soaking time, as gluten-free bread tends to be a bit drier. I’ve used a gluten-free challah before with amazing results!

Do I need to drain the cherry pie filling?

I highly recommend draining off some of the excess juice from the cherry pie filling. This will prevent the French toast from getting too soggy. You don’t need to drain it completely, just enough so it’s not swimming in juice.

Can I make this as muffins instead?

That’s a great idea! You could definitely adapt this recipe to make muffins. Just cut the bread into smaller pieces and mix everything together. Then, fill muffin tins about 2/3 full and bake until golden brown. You’ll need to adjust the baking time accordingly.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

You can easily adjust the sweetness level by reducing the amount of sugar in the egg mixture and the cream cheese filling. You can also use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar. Just keep in mind that this might slightly alter the taste and texture.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

If you’re not a fan of glaze, you can simply dust the French toast with powdered sugar. Or, you can serve it with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of maple syrup. Chocolate syrup is also a delicious option!

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! My Cherry Cheesecake French Toast recipe. It’s truly a special treat that’s perfect for weekend brunches, holidays, or any time you want to indulge in something decadent. It’s easy enough to make on a busy morning, but impressive enough to serve to guests. And trust me, the rave reviews will be worth it. If you’re looking for more breakfast inspiration, definitely check out my other French toast recipes – I’ve got a few that are just as delicious! Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to rate the recipe if you enjoyed it! Sharing your own variations is always welcome, too!