Crowd-Pleasing Brunch Recipes You Can Make in a Loaf Pan

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Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast Bake

This sweet and creamy bake brings together the decadence of cheesecake and the comfort of French toast, all in a loaf pan. Cubes of soft bread are layered with swirls of sweetened cream cheese and fresh strawberries, then soaked in a vanilla custard and baked until golden. Drizzle with maple syrup just before serving for a brunch showstopper that feels like dessert.

Ingredients (for 4-6 servings):

• 4 cups cubed brioche or challah bread (day-old is best)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (plus more for serving)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Butter or nonstick spray for greasing
• Optional: powdered sugar, extra strawberries for garnish
  

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan.
2. In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Add half the bread cubes to the loaf pan. Dot spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the bread, sprinkle half the strawberries, then repeat with remaining bread, cream cheese, and berries.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Pour evenly over the bread mixture.
5. Press down gently to help the bread soak up the custard. Let sit for 10 min, then bake for 45–50 min. until golden and set.
6. Let rest for 10 min. before slicing. Serve with extra maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh strawberries.