Golden, buttery brioche sandwiches stuffed with creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and sweet preserves — a decadent treat that tastes like dessert and breakfast combined.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5–6 minutes
Total Time: ~15 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Dietary: Dessert, Indulgent brunch
Ingredients
For the sandwiches:
-
Brioche or challah bread – 8 slices
-
Butter – 2 tbsp (for frying)
For the creamy filling:
-
Cream cheese – 4 oz, softened
-
Powdered sugar – 2 tbsp
-
Fresh strawberries – ½ cup, sliced thin
-
Strawberry preserves or jam – ¼ cup
For the egg coating:
-
Large eggs – 2
-
Whole milk – 3 tbsp
For serving:
-
Powdered sugar – for dusting
Instructions
-
Make the filling: Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and fluffy.
-
Assemble sandwiches: Spread the cream cheese mixture on 4 slices of bread, leaving a small border. Layer with strawberries and a spoonful of preserves. Top with remaining bread slices, pressing gently to seal.
-
Prepare egg coating: Whisk eggs and milk together in a shallow dish until blended.
-
Dip sandwiches: Carefully dip each sandwich in the egg mixture, coating both sides.
-
Fry: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry sandwiches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Drain briefly on paper towels.
-
Serve: Dust with powdered sugar, cut diagonally, and enjoy warm.
Quick Notes & Pro Tips
-
Bread choice: Use brioche or challah for a rich, fluffy texture.
-
Don’t overfill: Too much filling may cause leakage while frying.
-
Work in batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan for even browning.
Why You’ll Love It
It’s like cheesecake and French toast had a baby — creamy, fruity, buttery, and crisp on the outside. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
-
Jam options: Try raspberry or mixed berry preserves for variety.
-
Cream cheese: Use mascarpone for a silkier filling.
-
Fruit: Swap strawberries for blueberries, peaches, or sliced bananas.
Variations & Serving Suggestions
-
Make it extra indulgent: Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce.
-
Add crunch: Sprinkle crushed graham crackers inside for a cheesecake crust effect.
-
Serve with: Whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a full dessert.
Storage & Make-Ahead
-
Best served fresh: These are crispiest when eaten right after frying.
-
Make-ahead: Assemble sandwiches and store (unfried) in the fridge for up to 1 day. Dip and fry before serving.
FAQs
Q: Can I bake instead of frying?
A: Yes — bake at 375°F for 8–10 minutes per side on a buttered sheet, flipping halfway through.
Q: Can I make them savory instead?
A: Absolutely! Replace jam with ham or bacon and use a savory filling like herbed cream cheese.
Personal Note
This is one of my favorite brunch “desserts.” It’s ridiculously easy but feels like something from a café menu — perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a weekend morning.
Your turn!
Tried these Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches? Leave a comment or tag me on social media — I’d love to see your creations!
Would you like me to create a “Nutella-stuffed version” or a “baked casserole version” (like a cheesecake-stuffed French toast bake)?