Create a truly luxurious breakfast experience with this pan-fried French toast, featuring thick slices stuffed with a sweet, creamy filling. This recipe delivers golden-brown perfection and is an impressive centerpiece for any weekend brunch.
Author:Cat
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:25 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Breakfast
Method:Pan-Frying
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
8 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
2 tablespoons butter, for frying
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
Prepare the cream cheese filling: In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Mix in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until fully combined. Set aside.
Assemble the sandwiches: Take one slice of bread and spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over one side. Top with a second slice of bread to form a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining bread and filling.
Make the custard: In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg, milk, cinnamon, and salt until uniform.
Dip the sandwiches: Quickly dip each assembled sandwich into the custard mixture, turning to coat both sides. Do not let the bread soak for too long, as it will become soggy.
Cook the toast: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place two stuffed sandwiches in the pan. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and heated through. Add more butter as needed between batches.
Serve immediately: Dust the cooked French toast generously with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup.
Notes
For a fruit variation, gently fold 1/2 cup of fresh blueberries or chopped strawberries into the cream cheese filling before stuffing the bread.
Use thick-cut bread, like brioche, to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
If you prefer a baked version for a crowd, assemble the casserole style and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.