Strawberry French Toast from Black Bear Diner features thick slices of golden, fluffy French toast topped with fresh, juicy strawberries and a drizzle of sweet syrup, offering a delightful blend of warm, fruity, and buttery flavors.
Equipments
- Griddle or large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Bread knife
- Spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
- Plate (for serving)
- Small saucepan (for warming syrup, optional)
Ingredients
- 4 slices thick-cut bread (Texas toast or brioche)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for cooking)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Maple syrup (for serving)
- Whipped cream (optional)
Thick-cut bread like Texas toast or brioche is essential for achieving the fluffy texture of the Strawberry French Toast from Black Bear Diner. Using whole milk and large eggs ensures the custard base is rich and creamy. Fresh, sliced strawberries provide the juicy, fruity topping that complements the warm cinnamon and vanilla flavors in the toast. Unsalted butter is preferred for cooking to control the saltiness and enhance the buttery taste without overpowering your dish. The Strawberry French Toast from Black Bear Diner copycat menu delivers a perfect balance of sweet syrup, fresh fruit, and tender toast, making it a delightful breakfast treat you can recreate at home.
Instructions
- Preheat griddle or large skillet over medium heat.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, granulated sugar, and salt.
- Slice bread into thick slices if not pre-sliced.
- Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
- Add butter to the griddle or skillet and let it melt.
- Place coated bread slices onto the hot griddle/skillet.
- Cook until golden brown on the first side, about 2–3 minutes.
- Flip with a spatula and cook the other side until golden brown.
- Remove French toast from griddle and place on serving plate.
- Top with sliced strawberries.
- Dust with powdered sugar.
- (Optional) Warm the maple syrup in a small saucepan.
- Drizzle maple syrup over French toast.
- Add whipped cream, if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Strawberry French Toast from Black Bear Diner copycat menu features thick-cut brioche or Texas toast soaked in a rich custard made of eggs, whole milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and sugar. You can substitute almond or oat milk for whole milk to accommodate dietary preferences without compromising flavor. If fresh strawberries are unavailable, frozen strawberries work well when thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture. Use any sturdy bread with a soft crumb as an alternative to Texas toast or brioche to ensure the toast absorbs the custard properly. Cooking on a non-stick skillet or griddle with butter offers golden-brown results, but oil can be used for a dairy-free option.
Tips
Ensure your thick-cut bread, like Texas toast or brioche, is fresh but slightly stale for optimal absorption without becoming soggy. When dipping each slice into the egg mixture, avoid soaking too long to maintain crisp edges while allowing the center to stay fluffy. Preheat your griddle or skillet thoroughly and use unsalted butter to achieve even browning and rich flavor during cooking. Your final presentation benefits greatly from fresh, juicy strawberries and gently warmed maple syrup to balance sweetness and texture.
Nutritions
Strawberry French Toast from Black Bear Diner provides a balanced combination of carbohydrates from thick-cut bread and natural sugars from fresh strawberries and maple syrup. The eggs and whole milk contribute to protein and essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, supporting muscle health and bone strength. Cinnamon and vanilla extract add flavor without extra calories, while the unsalted butter supplies healthy fats that aid in nutrient absorption. Your breakfast includes fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from strawberries, enhancing its overall nutritional profile.
Storage
Strawberry French Toast is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain its softness and flavor. To reheat, place the toast on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350degF (175degC) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through without becoming soggy. Your leftover French toast can also be gently reheated in a nonstick skillet over low heat to preserve its crispy edges and fluffy interior.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, try swapping the Texas toast with cinnamon swirl bread to enhance the flavor complexity. You can substitute almond milk for whole milk to make the dish dairy-free while maintaining a creamy texture. Instead of fresh strawberries, use macerated berries by soaking them in a bit of sugar and lemon juice to intensify sweetness. To change the cooking process, consider baking the coated bread slices in a preheated oven at 375degF for 10-12 minutes to achieve a crispier texture.
Allergies
Strawberry French Toast contains common allergens such as eggs, milk, and wheat, so you should be cautious if you have sensitivities to any of these ingredients. The use of whole milk and unsalted butter introduces dairy allergens, while the thick-cut bread typically includes gluten. Fresh strawberries can occasionally cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Why this recipe?
Strawberry French Toast from Black Bear Diner features thick, fluffy slices dipped in a rich cinnamon custard, creating a perfect blend of texture and flavor. Fresh strawberries and a generous drizzle of sweet syrup enhance the dish's vibrant taste, appealing to those who enjoy a fruity breakfast treat. Its balanced sweetness and comforting ingredients make it a standout menu item that delights both kids and adults alike. You can recreate this beloved combination at home to enjoy a restaurant-quality breakfast with personalized freshness and indulgence.