These strawberry French toast roll-ups are a fun twist on classic French toast. Soft white bread is filled with sweet cream cheese and fresh strawberries, rolled up, dipped in a cinnamon egg mixture, and cooked until golden. They are crispy on the outside, creamy and fruity on the inside, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These roll-ups are quick to prepare and require only a few simple ingredients. They are perfect for family breakfasts, weekend brunches, or special occasions when you want something a little different from traditional French toast.
The creamy filling pairs perfectly with the sweetness of strawberries, creating a balanced flavor that is both fresh and indulgent. Kids and adults both enjoy the fun rolled shape, and they can easily be eaten by hand.
Another great thing about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the filling with different fruits or spreads depending on what you have at home.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
8 slices soft white bread
115 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 cup fresh strawberries, finely diced
2 large eggs
60 ml (1/4 cup) milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for cooking
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
extra powdered sugar for serving
maple syrup or strawberry syrup for serving (optional)
Directions
Start by preparing the bread. Trim the crusts from each slice of bread and flatten the slices with a rolling pin until thin and flexible.
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the mixture evenly over each slice of bread.
Sprinkle a small amount of diced strawberries across the cream cheese layer. Carefully roll the bread tightly into a log shape and set aside. Repeat with the remaining slices.
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
Dip each roll-up into the egg mixture, making sure all sides are coated, then place them seam-side down in the skillet.
Cook the roll-ups for about 2–3 minutes on each side, turning gently until all sides are golden brown and slightly crispy.
In a separate small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon. While the roll-ups are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Serve warm with powdered sugar sprinkled on top and maple syrup or strawberry syrup if desired.
Chocolate Strawberry Roll-Ups
Add a few mini chocolate chips inside the filling along with the strawberries for a richer dessert-style version.
Banana Cream Roll-Ups
Replace the strawberries with thin slices of banana for a naturally sweet variation.
Mixed Berry Version
Use a mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for a colorful and flavorful filling.
Nutty Delight
Spread a thin layer of almond butter or hazelnut spread along with the cream cheese for extra flavor.
Baked Version
Instead of frying, place the dipped roll-ups on a lined baking tray and bake at 190°C (375°F) for about 12–15 minutes until golden.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigeration
Store leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked roll-ups by placing them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 1 month.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in an oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 8 minutes.
Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as it can make the roll-ups soft instead of crispy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes. Thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the filling to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
What type of bread works best?
Soft white sandwich bread works best because it rolls easily and becomes crisp when cooked.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the roll-ups and refrigerate them for several hours before dipping and cooking.
Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?
Yes. You can replace the cream cheese with mascarpone, thick yogurt, or even a sweet nut spread.
How do I keep the roll-ups from opening while cooking?
Place them seam-side down first in the skillet so they seal as they cook.
Can I bake them instead of frying?
Yes. Baking is a great lighter option and still produces a delicious result.
Are these suitable for brunch gatherings?
Yes. They are easy to make in batches and are great for serving at brunch or breakfast parties.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes. Use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based milk as substitutes.
What toppings go well with these roll-ups?
Powdered sugar, maple syrup, strawberry syrup, whipped cream, or extra fresh strawberries all pair well.
Can kids help make this recipe?
Yes. Kids can help spread the filling and roll the bread, making this a fun family cooking activity.
Conclusion
Strawberry French toast roll-ups are a creative and delicious way to upgrade a classic breakfast. With their crispy exterior, creamy filling, and fresh strawberry flavor, they offer the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. They are simple to prepare, easy to customize, and ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of the day.
Strawberry French Toast Roll-Ups are soft bread filled with sweet cream cheese and fresh strawberries, rolled, dipped in a cinnamon egg mixture, and cooked until golden and crispy.
Ingredients
8 slices soft white bread
115 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 cup fresh strawberries, finely diced
2 large eggs
60 ml (1/4 cup) milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
Extra powdered sugar for serving
Maple syrup or strawberry syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions
Trim the crusts from each slice of bread and flatten the slices with a rolling pin until thin and flexible.
In a small bowl mix the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
Spread about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture over each slice of bread.
Sprinkle diced strawberries over the cream cheese layer.
Roll each slice tightly into a log shape and set aside.
In a shallow bowl whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
Dip each roll-up into the egg mixture so all sides are coated.
Place the roll-ups seam-side down in the skillet.
Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
In a small bowl mix granulated sugar and cinnamon.
While the roll-ups are warm roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Serve warm with powdered sugar and maple syrup or strawberry syrup if desired.
Notes
Soft white sandwich bread works best because it rolls easily.
Place roll-ups seam-side down first to keep them sealed while cooking.
Drain thawed frozen strawberries well to avoid soggy bread.
Add mini chocolate chips for a chocolate-strawberry variation.
These roll-ups can also be baked at 190°C (375°F) for 12–15 minutes instead of frying.
