Blueberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast

Prepare to elevate your brunch game to an entirely new level with this utterly Decadent Blueberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast! This isn’t just any French toast; it’s a luxurious experience where thick slices of golden-griddled bread are lovingly filled with a sweet, tangy cream cheese mixture bursting with juicy blueberries. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors: the crisp exterior of the French toast, the warm, custardy interior, and the irresistible creamy, fruity surprise within. Perfect for special occasions, holiday brunches, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something truly extraordinary, this stuffed French toast is guaranteed to impress and leave a lasting, delightful memory.

Ingredients:

For the Cream Cheese Blueberry Filling:

• 4 ounces (½ block) cream cheese, softened at room temperature
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
• ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries (if frozen, do not thaw)

For the French Toast:

• 8 slices thick-cut bread (e.g., challah, brioche, Texas toast, or sturdy white bread), about 1-inch thick
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 2-3 tablespoons unsalted butter or neutral oil (for cooking)

For Serving (Garnish & Toppings):

• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Fresh blueberries, for garnish
• Maple syrup (pure maple syrup preferred)
• Optional: Whipped cream, a dollop of blueberry compote

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Blueberry Filling:
   • In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and lemon zest (if using).
   • Using a fork or spoon, mix until smooth and well combined.
   • Gently fold in the ½ cup of blueberries. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Bread for Stuffing:
   • For each “sandwich” of French toast, you will need two slices of bread. Lay out 8 slices of bread on a clean surface.
   • Spread about 1-2 tablespoons of the cream cheese blueberry filling evenly over one side of four of the bread slices.
   • Top each filled slice with a second slice of bread, pressing down gently to form four stuffed “sandwiches.”
3. Prepare the French Toast Batter:
   • In a shallow dish or pie plate large enough to comfortably fit one stuffed bread “sandwich,” whisk together the eggs, milk, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, pinch of nutmeg (if using), and salt until the batter is smooth and well combined.
4. Heat the Griddle/Skillet:
   • Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
   • Add 1 tablespoon of butter or oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan. You’ll likely need to add more butter/oil between batches.
5. Dip and Cook the Stuffed French Toast:
   • Carefully take one stuffed bread sandwich and gently place it into the prepared egg batter.
   • Allow it to soak for about 30-45 seconds per side, ensuring the bread absorbs the custard without becoming overly soggy. The thick bread should hold up well.
   • Gently lift the soaked sandwich, letting any excess batter drip off, and carefully place it onto the preheated griddle.
   • Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until deeply golden brown and the cream cheese filling is warm and gooey. You may need to reduce the heat slightly to ensure the inside warms through without burning the outside.
   • Remove cooked stuffed French toast from the griddle and place on a plate. Repeat with remaining stuffed bread sandwiches, adding more butter/oil to the pan as needed.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Serve the Decadent Blueberry Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast immediately.
   • Dust generously with powdered sugar.
   • Garnish with a handful of fresh blueberries.
   • Drizzle generously with warm maple syrup.
   • For an extra treat, add a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of extra blueberry compote.

Tips, Variations, and Storage:

• Bread Choice: Thick-cut brioche or challah bread are highly recommended for their rich flavor and ability to withstand stuffing and soaking without becoming too soft.
• Preventing Leaks: Don’t overfill the sandwiches, and press the edges gently. If a little filling oozes out, it’s totally fine and just adds to the deliciousness!
• Even Cooking: If the exterior browns too quickly, reduce the heat and tent the French toast with foil while it finishes cooking through.
• Other Fruits: Experiment with other berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries in the cream cheese filling.
• Citrus Boost: The lemon zest in the cream cheese filling really brightens the flavors and cuts through the sweetness.
• Make Ahead: The cream cheese filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The assembled (but uncooked) stuffed French toast can also be wrapped and refrigerated for a few hours.
• Storage: Leftover cooked stuffed French toast is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a toaster oven, conventional oven (at 350°F/175°C), or air fryer until warmed through and slightly re-crisped. Microwaving may make it soggy.

Pairings:

• Savory Contrast: A side of crispy bacon, savory sausage, or even a light frittata would offer a delightful contrast to the sweet decadence.
• Beverages: Coffee, a mimosa, or a glass of cold milk are perfect choices.
• Fresh Fruit: A simple bowl of fresh fruit on the side provides a refreshing balance.

Quick Info:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Cuisine: American Breakfast / Brunch
• Effort Level: Medium