1. Introduction to the Recipe
If you love the rich, creamy taste of cheesecake and the warm comfort of French toast, you’re in for a treat. These Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast Roll-Ups combine the best of both worlds into a handheld, dippable, and entirely irresistible dish. Softened cream cheese, fresh strawberries, and a hint of vanilla create a luscious filling, while slices of bread are transformed into golden, cinnamon-sugar-coated bites of bliss.
Perfect for brunch, a special breakfast, or a sweet snack, this recipe is both elegant and easy. Each roll-up is crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. They’re also a great way to use up extra bread or leftover berries—and they look stunning on a plate.
Kids and adults alike love these roll-ups, and they can be served with maple syrup, whipped cream, or just as they are. Whether you’re hosting brunch, treating yourself on the weekend, or looking for a make-ahead breakfast, this recipe delivers on flavor and visual appeal.
Want more ideas like this? Try these stuffed French toast variations or learn how to make perfect cream cheese filling. But first, let’s roll up our sleeves and make some magic.
2. Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
Print
Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast Roll-Ups
Description
These strawberry cheesecake french toast roll-ups are a sweet, creamy brunch treat filled with fresh berries and cinnamon sugar.
Ingredients
(for 8 rolls)
-
115g cream cheese, softened
-
35g icing sugar
-
4 large strawberries, diced
-
8 slices of fresh bread (soft white or sandwich bread works best)
-
1 large egg
-
60ml milk
-
2 tbsp granulated sugar
-
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
-
1–2 tbsp butter (for frying)
For Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
-
3 tbsp granulated sugar
-
1 tsp cinnamon
Optional for serving:
-
Maple syrup
-
Extra strawberries
-
Whipped cream
Instructions
1. Make the Filling
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and icing sugar until smooth. Gently fold in the diced strawberries. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Bread
Cut the crusts off each slice of bread. Using a rolling pin, flatten each slice gently. This makes the bread easier to roll and keeps it from tearing.
3. Assemble the Roll-Ups
Spread a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture onto one end of each slice of bread. Roll up tightly from the filled end, pressing gently to seal.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, 2 tbsp of sugar, and vanilla extract.
5. Dip and Cook
Heat butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Dip each roll-up in the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Cook in the pan for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Mix the cinnamon and sugar in a shallow plate. Roll the warm French toast roll-ups in the cinnamon sugar until coated.
7. Serve
Serve warm with maple syrup, whipped cream, or extra fruit, if desired.
Notes
Use room-temperature cream cheese for easier mixing.
The flatter the bread, the easier it rolls—press down firmly with your rolling pin.
Don’t overfill; a heaping teaspoon of filling is enough per roll.
You can prep the roll-ups the night before and cook in the morning for a faster breakfast.
Strawberries can be swapped with blueberries, raspberries, or even banana slices.
Keywords: Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast Roll-Ups
3. Advanced Techniques
1. Using Brioche or Challah for Richer Flavor
While white sandwich bread works well, using slices of brioche or challah adds richness and a soft, buttery texture to your strawberry cheesecake french toast roll-ups. These breads hold their shape beautifully when rolled and enhance the dessert-like quality of the dish.
2. Macerating the Strawberries
For an extra burst of flavor, try macerating your strawberries before folding them into the cream cheese. Mix diced strawberries with a teaspoon of sugar and let them sit for 10–15 minutes. This releases juices and softens the berries, creating a more flavorful filling.
3. Adding a Crunchy Coating
For extra texture, try adding crushed graham crackers or toasted coconut to your cinnamon sugar mix. This mimics the cheesecake crust and adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
4. Making a Cheesecake Dip
Double the cream cheese filling and serve some on the side as a dip. Guests can dip each warm roll-up into a cool, creamy mixture, giving a beautiful contrast in temperature and texture.
5. Baking Instead of Frying
If you prefer a lower-fat method or are cooking for a crowd, you can bake the roll-ups at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes. Turn halfway through and brush lightly with melted butter for a crisp finish.
See more advanced recipes at cookingwhite.com
4. Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
1. Refrigerating Leftovers
Place any leftover roll-ups in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to restore crispiness.
2. Freezing for Later
To freeze, arrange cooked roll-ups on a baking sheet and freeze individually for 1 hour. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat from frozen in the oven or air fryer.
3. Make-Ahead Prep
Assemble the roll-ups (with filling) the night before and store in the fridge. Dip and cook them fresh the next morning for a quicker breakfast.
4. Best Way to Reheat
For best texture, reheat on a pan with a little butter or use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes. Microwaving works but may soften the exterior.
5. Keeping Them Warm for Serving
If cooking in batches, keep finished roll-ups warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven on a baking tray lined with parchment while you prepare the rest.
5. Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
1. Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free sandwich bread and ensure your cinnamon sugar mix and cream cheese are also gluten-free. The result is nearly identical in flavor and texture.
2. Dairy-Free Version
Replace cream cheese with a plant-based version and use a dairy-free milk like almond or oat. Use coconut oil or a vegan butter for frying.
3. Lower Sugar Alternative
Reduce the icing sugar in the filling to 1 tablespoon, and omit the cinnamon sugar coating. The natural sweetness of strawberries will still shine through.
4. Vegan Adaptation
Use dairy-free cream cheese, non-dairy milk, and substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water). Fry in vegan butter or coconut oil.
5. Nut-Free but Flavorful
For added flavor without nuts, sprinkle in lemon zest or a touch of cardamom into the filling. Always double-check ingredients to avoid nut-based cross-contamination.
6. FAQs About the Recipe
1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw them completely and drain excess liquid. Chop finely and mix with cream cheese as directed. Keep in mind the texture will be slightly softer than fresh.
2. My roll-ups won’t stay rolled—what do I do?
Make sure your bread is fully flattened, and don’t overfill. Press gently but firmly after rolling. If needed, place the seam side down first in the pan to help seal it.
3. Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Absolutely! Strawberry, vanilla, or even honey-flavored cream cheese can enhance the overall taste. Just reduce added sugar to avoid making the filling too sweet.
4. How do I serve these at a brunch party?
Cut roll-ups in half on a diagonal and arrange them on a platter. Offer dipping sauces like maple syrup, whipped cream, or fruit compote on the side.
5. Are these good for kids?
Yes! They’re sweet, handheld, and easy for kids to eat. You can even involve kids in rolling or coating with cinnamon sugar (just not the frying part!).
7. Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast Roll-Ups are the ultimate combination of decadent and delightful. From the creamy filling to the crisp cinnamon sugar shell, every bite feels like a mini celebration. This recipe transforms humble ingredients—bread, cream cheese, and fruit—into something truly special that works for both cozy mornings and festive brunch tables.
With their make-ahead flexibility, kid-friendly appeal, and grown-up flavor profile, these roll-ups are a great choice for weekend breakfasts, Mother’s Day brunches,
or anytime you want to spoil someone (including yourself). Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the many suggested twists—like macerated berries or graham cracker coating—you’ll find that this dish never gets old.
So next time you’re craving something sweet and satisfying, skip the ordinary toast and roll into something extraordinary. These Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast Roll-Ups will have everyone coming back for seconds—and asking for the recipe.