Valentine Breakfast Strawberry French Toast

Name: Valentine Breakfast Strawberry French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 slices of brioche bread; 2 large eggs; 1 cup of milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; Butter for cooking; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; Maple syrup, to taste; Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional); Whipped cream (optional)

Highlighted under: Special Kitchen

I absolutely love starting a special day with something decadent, and this Valentine Breakfast Strawberry French Toast has become my go-to brunch treat for loved ones. The combination of soft brioche bread infused with a rich custard mixture, compliments perfectly with fresh strawberries and a hint of vanilla. Not only is it visually stunning, but the flavors are simply irresistible. It’s the perfect way to celebrate love, making every bite feel like a sweet hug on a plate.

Created by

Vanessa Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-05T17:37:40.413Z

When my partner and I first tried making French toast together, we quickly realized that elevating a classic dish could be a fun date idea. This Valentine’s version was born out of a desire to impress while keeping it simple. By using freshly sliced strawberries and a hint of cinnamon, we discovered how well they complemented the creamy custard, creating a breakfast that felt both indulgent and wholesome.

As we shared this dish, I learned that letting the bread soak in the custard mixture for just a few minutes resulted in a delightfully custardy center. Topping it off with maple syrup and whipped cream made it not just a meal but a celebration of our time together. Trust me, this French toast will make your breakfast unforgettable!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy strawberries add a fresh burst of flavor.
Simple ingredients come together quickly and easily.
A luscious custard makes the toast incredibly rich and soft.

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality brioche bread is essential for achieving that perfect texture in your French toast. Look for a freshly baked loaf that is rich and buttery; day-old brioche works well too, as it absorbs the custard mixture without falling apart. If brioche isn’t available, challah makes a great substitute, offering a similar flavor and texture.

The freshness of your strawberries can significantly impact the overall flavor of the dish. Opt for ripe, fragrant berries that are bright red and plump, as these will provide a burst of natural sweetness that balances the rich custard. If strawberries are out of season, consider using other berries like raspberries or blueberries, or even a mix for a colorful topping.

Perfecting the Custard Mixture

The custard mixture is the heart of this recipe, combining eggs, milk, and spices to create a creamy coating for the bread. Make sure to whisk the ingredients thoroughly until fully blended to prevent any egg lumps, which can result in uneven cooking. I usually allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes to help infuse the flavors before soaking the bread.

When soaking the bread, take care not to oversaturate it. You want each slice to be well-coated but not overly soggy, as this can lead to a mushy texture when cooked. About 2 minutes per side is generally sufficient, and the bread should feel slightly spongy but still hold its shape.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For serving, consider garnishing your French toast with a dusting of powdered sugar, which adds a lovely aesthetic and a hint of sweetness. You can also drizzle a little extra maple syrup for a more indulgent experience. A dollop of whipped cream can elevate this dish to a restaurant-style brunch—the creaminess pairs perfectly with the fruit and custard.

Looking to switch things up? Add a sprinkle of nuts, such as sliced almonds or crushed pecans, for added crunch and flavor. You can also infuse the custard with other spices like nutmeg or even a splash of orange zest for a refreshing twist. Experimenting with different toppings can turn this French toast into a year-round favorite!

Ingredients

For the French Toast

4 slices of brioche bread
2 large eggs
1 cup of milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Butter for cooking

For the Topping

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

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Custard

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

Soak the Bread

Dip each slice of brioche into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for about 2 minutes per side.

Cook the French Toast

In a skillet over medium heat, melt a little butter. Cook the soaked bread slices for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the French toast topped with fresh strawberries, a drizzle of maple syrup, and whipped cream if desired.

Pro Tips

For added sweetness, consider macerating the strawberries with a touch of sugar before serving. This brings out their natural juices and enhances the flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your French toast ends up being too soggy, it might be due to overly soaking the bread. To fix this, when you practice making the recipe again, try reducing the soaking time to just 1 minute per side, especially if your bread is particularly fresh or soft.

On the flip side, if your French toast isn’t soaking up enough custard, ensure that your mixture is whisked thoroughly and that you're using bread that has a good density. Sometimes, slightly stale bread can absorb more liquid. If you find the texture is too dense, try using a lighter bread or reducing the amount of cinnamon for a milder flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

This recipe can be made ahead of time for those busy mornings. You can prepare the custard mixture a night before and store it in the fridge, covered tightly. Just make sure to give it a whisk before soaking the bread to re-integrate any ingredients that may have separated.

To batch-cook your French toast, soak and cook more slices than you need. You can keep the extra slices warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) while you finish cooking the rest. Leftover French toast can also be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—just reheat in a toaster or skillet for best results.

Scaling the Recipe

If you’re looking to scale this recipe for a larger crowd, simply multiply the ingredients accordingly. This French toast recipe can easily be doubled or tripled; however, when cooking, do it in batches to ensure even browning. Overcrowding the skillet can cause uneven cooking and steaming instead of toasting.

To keep the pace moving while cooking for more people, set up a production line: one person can soak the bread while another is cooking it. This method helps serve hot French toast to everyone at the same time, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular bread instead of brioche?

Yes, but brioche gives a richer texture. Regular bread will work well too!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the toaster or skillet.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the custard mixture the night before and soak the bread slices, but it’s best to cook it fresh for optimal taste.

→ What can I use instead of strawberries?

Feel free to substitute with any other fruit like blueberries, bananas, or peaches for a twist!