Looking for a unique and delightful breakfast treat that is both easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious? Look no further than these Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Roll-Ups. This recipe combines the creamy sweetness of strawberries and cream cheese with the rich, comforting taste of French toast, all rolled into one convenient and fun-to-eat package. Whether you’re preparing a special weekend breakfast, a brunch gathering, or simply want to surprise your family with something sweet and satisfying, these French toast roll-ups are sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- White sandwich bread: 8 slices, crusts removed
- Cream cheese: 4 ounces, softened
- Fresh strawberries: 1 cup, finely diced
- Eggs: 2 large
- Milk: 1/3 cup
- Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons for coating
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon for mixing with sugar
- Butter: For frying
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (optional for added flavor)
- Powdered sugar: For dusting (optional)
Instructions for Making Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Roll-Ups:
- Prepare the Bread:
- Start by rolling out each slice of bread with a rolling pin to flatten it. This makes the bread pliable and easy to roll.
- Make the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and finely diced strawberries until combined. You can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
- Assemble the Roll-Ups:
- Spread a generous amount of the strawberry cream cheese mixture over each slice of flattened bread. Be sure to leave a small border around the edges to prevent the filling from leaking out.
- Carefully roll up each slice of bread tightly to ensure the filling stays enclosed.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
- Dip and Cook:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt some butter.
- Dip each roll-up in the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Place the roll-ups in the skillet, and cook until all sides are golden brown, typically 2-3 minutes per side.
- Coat and Serve:
- Mix the additional granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish.
- Roll the cooked French toast roll-ups in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated.
- Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
Tips for Perfect French Toast Roll-Ups:
- Bread Choice: Opt for soft and slightly dense white bread for the best results, as it will hold up better when rolled and cooked.
- Filling Variations: Although strawberries and cream cheese are a classic combination, feel free to experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even thinly sliced apples.
- Make Ahead: These roll-ups can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator overnight. Simply pop them in the skillet in the morning for a quick and delicious breakfast.
Conclusion:
Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Roll-Ups are a delightful twist on traditional French toast. They combine the fruity zing of strawberries, the creamy texture of cream cheese, and the indulgent feel of French toast, all rolled into one spectacular dish. Perfect for breakfast in bed, a festive brunch, or as a special treat for your loved ones, these roll-ups are sure to bring smiles all around the table. Give this recipe a try and see just how exciting breakfast can be!
Serving and Storage Tips for Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Roll-Ups
Serving Tips:
- Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve these French toast roll-ups warm. The warmth enhances the creaminess of the cheese and the sweetness of the strawberries, making the dish comforting and indulgent.
- Accompaniments: Pair your French toast roll-ups with additional toppings and sides to enhance their flavor and presentation:
- Syrup: Drizzle with maple syrup or a strawberry syrup for extra sweetness.
- Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh fruit slices or a berry salad to add a refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet roll-ups.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top can make these roll-ups feel even more decadent and special.
- Nutella or Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, a light drizzle of Nutella or chocolate sauce over the roll-ups can be delightful.
- Garnishes: A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a touch of cinnamon can add a lovely finishing touch to the dish, making it even more appealing.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers or want to prepare this dish in advance, you can store the roll-ups in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They will keep for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply place the roll-ups in a skillet over medium heat and cook until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside. You can also reheat them in a toaster oven or a regular oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Avoid using a microwave as it can make the bread soggy.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the French toast roll-ups. Wrap each roll-up individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag or an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Quick Refresh Tip: If the roll-ups have been refrigerated and feel a bit dry upon reheating, brush them lightly with butter before warming them up. This will help bring back some of their original moisture and flavor.
By following these simple serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Roll-Ups at their best whether freshly made or as a delightful leftover treat.
1. What kind of bread works best for Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Roll-Ups?
- Soft, white sandwich bread is ideal for making these roll-ups because it’s easy to flatten and roll without tearing. You should choose bread that isn’t too thin, as a slightly denser texture will hold up better when stuffed and cooked. Avoid using very dense or crusty breads, as they can be difficult to roll and might not absorb the egg mixture as well.
2. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh for the filling?
- Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but it’s important to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before chopping and mixing them with the cream cheese. This prevents the filling from becoming too watery, which could make the bread soggy. If possible, fresh strawberries are preferred for their firmer texture and vibrant flavor.
3. How can I prevent the roll-ups from unrolling during cooking?
- To keep the roll-ups secure while cooking, make sure to roll the bread tightly around the filling. You can also use a toothpick to hold the end of the roll-up in place during the cooking process, just remember to remove the toothpicks before serving. Additionally, cooking them seam-side down first can help seal the roll and prevent unrolling.
4. Are there any other variations of the filling I can try?
- Absolutely! The beauty of French toast roll-ups is their versatility. You can experiment with different fillings to suit your taste or use up what you have on hand. Some popular variations include:
- Banana and Nutella: Spread Nutella on the bread and add slices of banana before rolling.
- Blueberry Lemon: Mix cream cheese with a little lemon zest and sugar, then fold in fresh or frozen blueberries.
- Cinnamon Apple: Sauté chopped apples with cinnamon and a little sugar until soft, then cool slightly before mixing with cream cheese.
- Pumpkin Spice: Combine cream cheese with a bit of canned pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice for a fall-flavored treat.