Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese works fine, though the filling won't be quite as rich. The full-fat version creates a more authentic cheesecake flavor, but the reduced-fat option still produces delicious results with fewer calories. Just ensure it's well-softened for proper mixing.

What's the best type of bread to use if I don't have brioche or Texas toast?

Any thicker-cut bread will work in a pinch. Sourdough adds a nice tangy contrast to the sweet filling, challah works beautifully, and even regular sandwich bread sliced double-thick can do the job. The key is sturdiness—you need bread that won't fall apart when dipped in the egg mixture or leak filling during cooking.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes! Use your favorite plant-based cream cheese alternative, dairy-free butter, and plant milk in the egg wash. The results are slightly different in texture but equally delicious. Just make sure your bread is also dairy-free if you need a completely dairy-free version.

Why is my sandwich getting too dark on the outside before the filling warms?

This typically happens when the heat is too high. Next time, try reducing your burner to medium-low after the initial sear and give the sandwich more time to warm through. Also, make sure your cream cheese was at room temperature before starting—cold filling takes longer to warm, giving the exterior more time to darken.

Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches Recipe

Description

Indulge in a decadent dessert that combines the crispy goodness of fried bread with a luscious filling of sweet strawberry jam and creamy cheesecake. These Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches are the ultimate treat—quick to make, easy to prepare, and absolutely irresistible with their golden-brown exterior and gooey, creamy center, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an indulgent snack!

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Sandwiches

4 slices of thick white bread (like brioche or Texas toast)
4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup strawberry jam

For Frying

2 tbsp butter
1 egg
1/4 cup milk
1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Special Equipment

Non-stick skillet or frying pan
Mixing bowl
Whisk

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Instructions

Prepare the filling
In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This creates the cheesecake-like filling for the sandwiches.
Assemble the sandwich
Take two slices of bread and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over one side. On the other two slices of bread, spread a generous amount of strawberry jam. Press together one cream cheese slice with one jam slice to form a sandwich.
Make the egg mixture
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and cinnamon (if using). This will be your coating mixture for frying.
Dip and fry
Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and melt the butter. Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated, then place it into the heated skillet.
Cook until golden
Fry each side of the sandwich for about 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and golden brown.
Dust and serve
Remove the sandwiches from the pan, dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness, and serve warm. Perfect when enjoyed fresh!

Notes

You can substitute strawberry jam for other fruit jams, such as raspberry, blueberry, or apricot, to customize the flavor.
For an extra crunch, sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on the cream cheese filling before assembling.
Use stale bread if possible—it absorbs the egg mixture better and gives a crispier result.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elevated dessert.
If you prefer a no-fry option, toast the sandwiches in a sandwich press or grill pan.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 450kcal
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 145mg