French Toast Rolls with Strawberries
“French Toast Rolls with Strawberries combine the comforting flavors of classic French toast with a delightful twist. Softened cream cheese and fresh strawberries are rolled up in thinly flattened bread slices, creating a perfect balance of creamy sweetness and fruity freshness. Each roll is dipped in a cinnamon-infused egg mixture, then pan-fried until golden and crispy.
Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and garnished with more strawberries, these rolls make for a charming and indulgent breakfast or brunch treat that is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.”
French Toast Rolls with Strawberries
Ingredients
12 slices of bread
4 ounces of softened cream cheese
½ pint fresh strawberries
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
3 tsp granulated sugar, divided
¼ tsp cinnamon
¼ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1:
Wash the strawberries and remove the stem.
Roughly chop the berries
Step 2:
In a bowl, soften the cream cheese using the microwave for 10 seconds
Stir in the powdered sugar, mixing well
Step 3:
Trim the crust off the bread and flatten the bread with a rolling pin
Spread about 1 tsp of cream cheese mix along one edge of the bread
Step 4:
Lay a layer of chopped strawberries on the cream cheese
Very gently roll the bread up starting with the side that has the cream cheese and strawberries
Step 5:
In a shallow bowl, mix the eggs, milk, sugar and cinnamon( I generally add 1 tsp vanilla)
Preheat a nonstick pan
Carefully dip each bread roll into the egg mix
Step 6:
Place each roll seam side down in the pan
Let each side brown and roll ¼ inch until the entire roll has been browned
Place on a serving dish, sprinkle with powdered sugar and any remaining strawberries
Notes:
Choose the Right Bread: Use soft, fresh bread for best results. Brioche or white sandwich bread work well because they roll easily and absorb the egg mixture nicely.
Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Ensure the cream cheese is softened adequately so it mixes smoothly with the powdered sugar. If needed, you can leave it out at room temperature for a while before using.
Flatten the Bread Evenly: Use a rolling pin to flatten the bread slices evenly. This helps in rolling up the bread without tearing and ensures even cooking.
Roll Tightly: When rolling the bread with the cream cheese and strawberries, roll tightly to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
Preheat the Pan: Preheat your nonstick skillet or frying pan over medium heat before adding the French toast rolls. This ensures they cook evenly and get a nice golden brown crust.
Cooking Time: Cook the rolls over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side. This allows the egg mixture to cook through and the bread to become crispy without burning.
Garnish and Serve Fresh: Sprinkle the French toast rolls with powdered sugar immediately after cooking while they’re still warm. Serve with any remaining chopped strawberries for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Variations: Feel free to customize the filling! You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture for extra flavor, or even add a spread of your favorite fruit preserves along with the cream cheese.
Make Ahead: While best served fresh, you can prepare the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them before cooking. This can save time in the morning for a quick breakfast.
Serve with Syrup: If desired, serve with maple syrup or honey on the side for dipping or drizzling over the French toast rolls for added sweetness.
Nutrition Information:
SERVING SIZE: 1
Amount Per Serving:
TOTAL FAT: 2g | CHOLESTEROL: 44mg | SODIUM: 12mg | CARBOHYDRATES: 28g | PROTEIN: 8g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use any type of bread for these French Toast Rolls?
While you can use various bread types, it’s recommended to use white or whole wheat bread for the best texture.
Is it necessary to remove the crust from the bread?
Trimming the crust and flattening the bread helps in rolling and sealing the French Toast Rolls.
However, you can keep the crust if you prefer.
Can I prepare the cream cheese mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
How do I prevent the rolls from unraveling while cooking?
Make sure to roll the bread tightly and place the seam side down when cooking.
This helps in keeping the rolls sealed.
Can I substitute the strawberries with other fruits?
Yes, you can use other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or sliced bananas based on your preference.
Is it necessary to use a nonstick pan?
A nonstick pan is recommended to prevent the rolls from sticking, but you can use a well-greased regular pan if needed.
Can I make these French Toast Rolls ahead of time for breakfast?
While it’s best to serve them fresh, you can prepare the rolls in advance and cook them just before serving for a quicker breakfast.
How do I store leftovers, and can they be reheated?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Reheat in a toaster oven or microwave when ready to eat.
Can I customize the egg mixture with additional flavors?
Yes, you can add vanilla extract or other flavorings to the egg mixture for extra taste.
What other toppings can I use besides powdered sugar and strawberries?
Consider topping the rolls with maple syrup, whipped cream, or a dusting of cocoa powder for additional sweetness and flavor.