If you've ever wished for a breakfast treat that combines the delightful flavors of French toast with a fun twist, these French Toast Roll-Ups are just the ticket. They're stuffed with creamy cheese and fresh strawberries, making them a deliciously sweet start to your day.
First off, you'll need some white bread. It acts as a perfect base — soft enough to roll but sturdy enough to hold the filling. The cream cheese is your creamy, tangy spread that balances the sweetness. Then there's the diced strawberries, which add a burst of freshness and natural sweetness. For the batter, you'll whisk together eggs, whole milk, ground cinnamon for warmth, and a touch of vanilla extract for aroma. Butter helps achieve that golden-brown perfection when frying, while a roll in granulated sugar gives each roll-up a sweet, slightly crunchy coating. Lastly, don't forget the maple syrup for drizzling.
These roll-ups are delightful with a side of crispy bacon for a savory contrast. For a special brunch, serve them with a fresh fruit salad and a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair nicely with a tall glass of freshly squeezed orange juice.
Start by flattening each slice of bread with a rolling pin. This makes it easy to roll up and helps everything stick together nicely. Don't forget to trim off those crusts; they'll just get in the way.
Spread a good layer of cream cheese on each slice. You want enough to taste it in every bite. Place a few strawberry pieces at one end of the bread. Roll it up tightly, starting from the strawberry end, so they stay tucked inside.
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. This mixture is going to soak into the bread and give it that classic French toast flavor.
Heat your butter in a skillet over medium heat. You want the butter to melt but not brown too quickly. Dip each roll-up in the egg mixture, turning to coat it completely. Let any excess drip off back into the bowl.
Place each roll-up seam-side down in the skillet. This helps them hold together as they cook. Cook on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Once cooked, roll each one in granulated sugar while still warm. This will create a deliciously sweet crust. Serve immediately with maple syrup for dipping or drizzling.