Imagine creamy cheesecake filling tucked between buttery brioche slices, then fried until golden and crisp. This dessert gives me all the comfort of a childhood treat with the indulgence of a café-style creation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how the outside turns beautifully crisp while the inside stays soft, creamy, and slightly tangy from the cream cheese. The warm strawberries add a burst of sweetness that makes every bite irresistible. It’s quick to prepare, looks fancy, and tastes even better than it looks.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
8 slices brioche or challah bread
4 ounces (about 115 g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
2 tablespoons powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
½ cup fresh strawberries, sliced or chopped (or use strawberry jam)
2 tablespoons butter, for frying
Directions
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over four slices of bread.
Add sliced strawberries or a spoonful of strawberry jam on top of the cream cheese layer.
Cover each with the remaining four slices of bread to form sandwiches.
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Fry each sandwich for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp.
Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 4 sandwiches (serves 4).
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
Use raspberries, blueberries, or peaches instead of strawberries for a fruity twist.
Add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce before serving for extra indulgence.
Use cinnamon-swirl bread for a dessert-like flavor.
For a lighter version, bake the sandwiches at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Storage/Reheating
I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I use a skillet or toaster oven over low heat until warmed and crisp again. I avoid microwaving them since it can make the bread soggy.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, I can assemble the sandwiches a few hours ahead and store them in the fridge. I fry them just before serving so they stay crispy.
2. What kind of bread is best?
I like brioche or challah because they’re rich and soft but sturdy enough to handle frying without falling apart.
3. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but I thaw and drain them well first so the sandwiches don’t get soggy.
4. How can I make this recipe lighter?
I use whole-grain bread, less powdered sugar, and bake instead of frying when I want a lighter option.
5. What can I serve with these sandwiches?
I love pairing them with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion
These Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches are a delightful mix of creamy, fruity, and crispy textures. I love making them for brunch or dessert when I want something easy yet impressive. With just a few simple ingredients, I can create a treat that feels indulgent and comforting every time.
Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches are a delightful dessert featuring creamy cheesecake filling and sweet strawberries between buttery brioche slices, pan-fried to golden perfection and dusted with powdered sugar.
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:4 sandwiches
Ingredients
8 slices brioche or challah bread
4 ounces (about 115 g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
2 tablespoons powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
½ cup fresh strawberries, sliced or chopped (or use strawberry jam)
2 tablespoons butter, for frying
Instructions
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over four slices of bread.
Add sliced strawberries or a spoonful of strawberry jam on top of the cream cheese layer.
Top each with another slice of bread to form sandwiches.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
Fry each sandwich for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.
Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Use sturdy bread like brioche or challah to hold the filling during frying.
Substitute other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches for variety.
Bake instead of frying for a lighter version.
Avoid microwaving leftovers to maintain crisp texture.
Best served immediately after frying for optimal texture and flavor.