Valentine Breakfast Strawberry French Toast

Name: Valentine Breakfast Strawberry French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 slices of bread (preferably brioche or challah); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Butter for frying; 1 cup strawberries, sliced; Powdered sugar for dusting; Maple syrup, to serve; Whipped cream (optional)

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I absolutely love indulging in sweet breakfasts, especially when they are as delightful as this Valentine Breakfast Strawberry French Toast. Every bite is like a delicious hug, merging velvety custard-soaked bread with sweet, juicy strawberries. We make it even more special with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of syrup. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to surprise a loved one on Valentine’s Day, showing that you care with every mouthful. Trust me, this is a dish worth waking up early for!

Created by

Elodie Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:01:34.500Z

Making this Valentine Breakfast Strawberry French Toast has become a cherished tradition in our home. The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy French toast creates a wonderful harmony of flavors. I love how quickly it comes together, letting us spend more time enjoying breakfast rather than cooking. Trust me when I say that letting the bread soak in the custard mixture for an extra minute makes all the difference in achieving that fluffiness.

I can remember the first time my partner and I made this together. We laughed as we tried to make hearts with the powdered sugar on top. It was such a fun and sweet experience! Pairing it with a side of whipped cream takes this dish to a whole new level—just don’t forget the syrup! It's a memory we cherish every Valentine’s Day.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich strawberry flavor perfectly complements the sweet custard.
A delightful twist on classic French toast that feels special.
Quick and easy, making it perfect for busy mornings or special occasions.

      

Perfecting the Custard

The key to achieving creamy and flavorful French toast lies in the custard mixture. Using whole milk instead of skim milk provides a richer texture, while the combination of eggs and milk creates a silky custard that clings beautifully to the bread. Don't forget to whisk until everything is fully blended; the mixture should appear smooth and glossy, with the vanilla and cinnamon evenly distributed throughout. This stage is crucial as it forms the flavor base for not only the bread but also sets the stage for those delightful caramelized edges when cooked.

Cinnamon is not just for flavor; it offers a warm spice that elevates the overall taste of the dish. If you prefer a unique twist, consider swapping in nutmeg or cardamom for an aromatic touch. A pinch of salt can also enhance the custard's depth, balancing the sweetness from the syrup and strawberries when served. Allowing this mixture to sit for a few minutes helps the spices infuse into the liquid, giving your French toast an unforgettable flavor profile.

Choosing Your Bread Wisely

Brioche and challah are ideal choices for this recipe due to their slightly sweet profiles and dense textures. These bread types absorb the custard without becoming mushy, resulting in a fluffy center and crisp exterior after cooking. If you're looking for a lighter option, whole grain bread can also work, though it may yield a slightly chewier texture. Always aim for thicker slices as they hold up better when soaked, preventing the toast from falling apart during cooking.

For an even more decadent version, consider adding a layer of cream cheese or mascarpone in between the slices of bread before dipping. This will not only add creaminess but also create a luscious surprise in the middle. Alternatively, for a gluten-free option, use a sturdy gluten-free bread that can handle the custard without falling apart, ensuring everyone can enjoy this lovely breakfast treat.

Ingredients

Gather these delectable ingredients for a perfect start to your Valentine’s Day:

For the French Toast

4 slices of bread (preferably brioche or challah)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Butter for frying

For the Topping

1 cup strawberries, sliced
Powdered sugar for dusting
Maple syrup, to serve
Whipped cream (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Here's how to whip up this delightful breakfast:

Prepare the Custard

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

Soak the Bread

Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Let them soak for about 1 minute.

Cook the French Toast

In a non-stick skillet, melt some butter over medium heat. Add the soaked bread slices and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

Prepare the Topping

While the French toast is cooking, slice the strawberries and set them aside.

Serve

Plate the French toast, top with sliced strawberries, dust with powdered sugar, and drizzle with maple syrup.

Enjoy your luscious Valentine’s breakfast creation!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of orange zest to the custard mixture. It adds a lovely fragrance and zest that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.

Serving Suggestions

This Valentine Breakfast Strawberry French Toast is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further by incorporating flavors like a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves or a dash of lemon zest for an extra zing. Plating can also play a key role; arrange the toast in a fanned-out position, serving the strawberries on the side, garnished with a mint sprig for a beautiful presentation. Adding whipped cream can transform this dish into a dessert-like treat that’s perfect for special occasions.

If you're hosting a brunch, consider serving this French toast alongside a fruit salad or yogurt parfait to balance the sweetness. You might also want to provide an assortment of toppings—think crushed nuts, flavored syrups, or even a dollop of lemon curd for guests to customize their plates.

Make-Ahead Tips

This recipe can also be partially prepared in advance. For instance, you can whisk the custard mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just cover it to prevent unwanted odors from affecting the flavors. You can also slice your bread ahead of time, allowing you to quickly assemble and cook the French toast in the morning with minimal effort.

Another great idea is to pre-soak the bread slices in the custard overnight in the fridge. This not only saves time in the morning but also allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture once cooked. Just be sure to drain off any excess custard before cooking to avoid sogginess and achieve that perfectly golden-brown crust.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! Try using bananas, blueberries, or raspberries for a different flavor.

→ How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the milk with almond, soy, or oat milk and use non-dairy butter for frying.

→ What kind of bread works best for French toast?

Brioche or challah is recommended for their richness, but you can use any thick-sliced bread you have on hand.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can soak the bread slices in the custard mixture the night before and store them in the refrigerator.