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There is nothing quite as delightful as biting into a warm crisply fried sandwich oozing with creamy cheesecake filling and sweet strawberries. These Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches have quickly become a family favorite in my kitchen Whether it is a decadent breakfast a fun brunch centerpiece or a late night treat for friends it is always a showstopper.
My kids declared this their favorite Sunday treat after the very first bite and now we always look for excuses to make them. There is something so comforting and playful about fried sandwiches that just brings everyone to the table with a smile.
Ingredients
- Brioche or challah bread: This bread is soft rich and slightly sweet The better the bread the more luxurious the result so choose a bakery loaf if possible
- Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese is essential for easy mixing and a smooth luscious filling Choose full fat for best creaminess
- Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and a gentle velvety texture You will want extra for dusting at the end
- Fresh strawberries: Look for ripe fragrant berries for the juiciest flavor and best color
- Strawberry jam: A spoonful amps up the berry flavor and adds a slight stickiness that holds the filling together Use a high fruit content jam for more intense taste
- Large eggs: Eggs help bind the sandwich and create the custardy fried exterior
- Milk: Any milk works but whole milk brings that extra richness to the batter
- Butter: Butter is key for frying and achieving that deep golden crust Use real unsalted butter if you can
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- Mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar in a small bowl until completely smooth. Scrape the sides and beat well to avoid any lumps because this base must blend perfectly with the fruit.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture generously on four slices of bread. Lay sliced strawberries in an even layer over the cream cheese. Add a spoonful of strawberry jam and gently spread but do not overfill or the sandwiches might burst when frying. Top each with a second slice of bread pressing just lightly to seal.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a wide shallow dish whisk eggs and milk together until smooth with no streaks. Make sure the mixture is deep enough so you can fully dip the sandwiches.
- Dip the Sandwiches:
- Carefully dip each assembled sandwich into the egg mixture making sure both sides are well coated. Let any excess drip off before moving to the skillet.
- Fry the Sandwiches:
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat When the butter is foamy and fragrant carefully add the sandwiches without crowding the pan. Fry for two to three minutes per side until deep golden and crisp. Adjust the heat as needed so the bread browns evenly without burning.
- Finish and Serve:
- Transfer the fried sandwiches to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess butter Let rest for one minute then dust a generous layer of powdered sugar on top before serving warm.
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My favorite part of making this recipe is always choosing the strawberries. Once when my niece helped she hunted for the ripest berries at the farmers market and that memory of her proudly showing them off makes these sandwiches extra special for me.
Storage Tips
Leftover fried sandwiches can be refrigerated for up to two days Cool completely before storing in an airtight container. To reheat use a nonstick skillet over low heat for three to four minutes per side which keeps them crisp. You can also freeze them individually wrapped for one month. Reheat from frozen in an oven or air fryer until hot inside.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of strawberry jam raspberry or apricot jam works beautifully for a different fruity hint. Mascarpone or whipped ricotta can stand in for cream cheese for a unique twist. If using gluten free bread make sure the slices are sturdy and not too thin so the sandwiches hold together during frying.
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Serving Suggestions
I love serving these as a brunch showstopper with fresh coffee and some whipped cream on the side. They are also wonderful as a late night movie snack or as a playful dessert at dinner parties. For an extra hit of luxury drizzle with a little melted chocolate or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cultural and Historical Notes
Fried sandwiches have deep roots in European and American food traditions taking cues from French toast and decadent café treats. This cheesecake version brings in New York style cheesecake flavors along with the fun hand held style of comfort cooking perfect for casual gatherings or weekend breakfasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, while brioche or challah offers a rich texture, white sandwich bread or sourdough also works well and holds the filling.
- → How do I keep the filling from leaking?
Seal the edges by pressing the sandwiches gently, and ensure the cream cheese layer covers the bread completely to help lock in the filling.
- → What else can I add for crunch?
Chopped nuts like almonds or pecans can be mixed into the cream cheese layer or sprinkled between the bread slices.
- → Is it possible to prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate before dipping in the egg mixture. Fry just before serving for best results.
- → What other jams can be used?
Raspberry, apricot, or mixed berry jams all bring delightful flavor variations to these sweet sandwiches.
- → How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm leftovers in a skillet or oven until heated through for best texture. Avoid microwaving to keep the bread crispy.