Valentine Breakfast Strawberry French Toast

Name: Valentine Breakfast Strawberry French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 4 slices of thick bread (preferably brioche or challah); 2 eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; Maple syrup, for serving; Powdered sugar, for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Ideas

I love making special breakfasts on Valentine’s Day, and this Strawberry French Toast is my go-to recipe. The combination of fluffy bread soaked in a creamy custard and topped with fresh strawberries creates a delightful start to the day. It's surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for surprising loved ones. The sweet syrup and powdered sugar add a touch of elegance that elevates the dish, turning a simple morning into a memorable moment. Trust me, your sweetheart will appreciate the effort and thoughtfulness.

Created by

Etta Langton

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:49:34.286Z

Making this Valentine Breakfast Strawberry French Toast has become a sweet tradition for me. I love waking up early, gathering my ingredients, and creating this delicious meal. By soaking the bread in a rich custard mixture, it becomes incredibly soft while perfectly toasting in the pan. The secret is letting it soak just enough to absorb the flavors without falling apart!

Last Valentine’s Day, I added a drizzle of chocolate sauce alongside the maple syrup, which took this dish to another level of deliciousness. The fresh strawberries not only look beautiful but also add a refreshing element, balancing the sweetness perfectly. Don’t forget to dust it with powdered sugar for that extra romantic touch!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fluffy texture that perfectly absorbs the custard mixture
Fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor and color
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a special breakfast

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of bread is crucial for this Strawberry French Toast. Brioche and challah are preferred because their rich, buttery flavor and dense texture create a delicious base that soaks up the custard without falling apart. If you're in a pinch, a good quality sourdough or French bread can work as alternatives, but be mindful that you may want to adjust soaking time to prevent them from becoming overly saturated.

Using fresh eggs with a deep yellow-orange yolk impacts the richness of the custard. Organic or farm-fresh eggs can provide a superior flavor and nutritional content. The heavy cream also adds a luxurious mouthfeel, making each bite indulgent. If you're looking for a lighter option, you could substitute the heavy cream with additional milk, but expect a slightly less creamy texture.

Cooking Techniques Explained

For the best results, it’s important to preheat your skillet over medium heat and use a non-stick or well-seasoned cast-iron pan. This allows for even cooking and prevents sticking. If the skillet is too hot, you risk burning the French toast outside while the inside remains soggy, so check the temperature by flicking a few drops of water onto the pan—if they dance, it's time to cook!

When soaking the bread, a gentle patting with the custard mix is preferable to an aggressive dunk, which can cause the bread to break down. Letting the slices rest after soaking for a minute allows the custard to fully permeate without overwhelming the texture. Keep your cooked slices warm in a low oven while you finish the rest to ensure everything is served hot!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful breakfast:

Ingredients

4 slices of thick bread (preferably brioche or challah)
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
Maple syrup, for serving
Powdered sugar, for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your breakfast:

Prepare the Custard

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined.

Soak the Bread

Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated. Allow the bread to soak for a few minutes.

Cook the French Toast

Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter. Add the soaked bread slices and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Serve with Strawberries

Once cooked, plate the French toast and top with sliced strawberries. Drizzle with maple syrup and sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Pro Tips

For an extra indulgent treat, try adding a splash of orange zest to the custard for a citrusy twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this French Toast with a side of crispy bacon or sausage not only balances the sweetness but also makes for a more substantial brunch plate. The salty flavor contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries and syrup. For those looking for an even lighter option, a simple yogurt or cottage cheese on the side can complement the dish’s richness.

To make this dish more festive, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone cheese atop the strawberries for an extra touch of decadence. A sprinkle of lemon zest can elevate the flavor further, offering a refreshing brightness that cuts through the sweetness of the syrup.

Make-Ahead Tips

For an easy morning, you can prepare the custard mixture a night before and store it in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together. Just give it a good whisk before dipping the bread slices in the morning. Pre-slicing the strawberries also reduces prep time, making it super quick to serve breakfast after cooking.

If you're looking to make a larger batch for family or friends, you can easily scale up the ingredient quantities. Keep in mind that the custard mixture should be made in larger batches accordingly, but ensure that each slice has enough time to soak without rushing it. A baking dish can be used to cook several slices at once in the oven, set at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole grain bread instead of brioche?

Yes, whole grain bread can work well for a healthier option!

→ How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the toaster or oven.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used; just make sure to thaw and drain them before serving.

→ What toppings can I add?

Feel free to get creative! Fresh whipped cream, chocolate chips, or nuts can be great additions.