Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Roll-Ups are the kind of breakfast that feels like a special occasion—even if you’re just making them on a random weekday morning. They take everything you love about classic French toast, add a rich, creamy filling, and wrap it all around juicy, fresh strawberries. Each bite is a combination of crisp, golden-brown toast on the outside and sweet, velvety filling on the inside, with pops of fresh fruit in every roll.
What makes these roll-ups so charming is how fun and approachable they are. Instead of traditional slices of French toast, you’re working with little handheld rolls—perfect for kids, brunch platters, or anyone who loves breakfast that doubles as finger food. They look impressive on the plate, but they’re surprisingly simple to make with basic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
The creamy layer of sweetened cream cheese adds a cheesecake-like richness that pairs beautifully with the tart sweetness of strawberries. Once rolled, dipped in a cinnamon-vanilla egg mixture, and cooked in butter, the roll-ups are finished with a light coating of cinnamon sugar or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.
Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch, a Mother’s Day breakfast, or just want to spoil yourself with something cozy and indulgent, Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Roll-Ups are a delightful option. They’re customizable, easy to scale up for a crowd, and guaranteed to bring a smile to the table.
Core Ingredients for Making the Recipe
To prepare these Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Roll-Ups, you’ll need a few everyday ingredients that come together to create a breakfast that tastes like dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Roll-Ups
- 12 slices soft white bread (crusts removed)
Soft sandwich bread works best because it rolls easily without tearing. - ½ cup cream cheese, softened
This creates the creamy, tangy base for the filling. - 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
To lightly sweeten the cream cheese, as given. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Adds warmth and aroma to the filling. - 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
For juicy, fruity bites in every roll. - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
To lightly sweeten the strawberries and help them release their juices.
For the Egg Mixture (French Toast Coating)
- 2 large eggs
The foundation of any classic French toast batter. - ⅓ cup milk (whole or 2%)
Adds richness and helps the egg mixture coat the bread smoothly. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For flavor that carries through every bite. - ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
A cozy spice that pairs beautifully with strawberries and cream cheese. - Pinch of salt
To balance the sweetness and enhance overall flavor.
For Cooking & Finishing
- 2–3 tablespoons unsalted butter
For frying the roll-ups until golden brown and crisp. - ⅓ cup granulated sugar
For rolling the cooked roll-ups (optional but delicious). - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mixed with sugar to create a cinnamon-sugar coating. - Additional powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
For a pretty, bakery-style finish. - Fresh strawberries and maple syrup, for serving (optional)
To garnish and add extra flavor at the table.
These ingredients come together to create a treat that’s creamy, fruity, and just the right amount of sweet—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.
Step-by-Step
1. Prepare the Strawberry Filling
In a small bowl, combine the chopped strawberries with the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Stir gently until the berries are evenly coated. Let them sit for about 5–10 minutes.
This short resting time allows the strawberries to release some of their natural juices and boosts their sweetness, enhancing their flavor in the finished roll-ups.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, add the softened cream cheese, 1 tablespoon powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Using a spoon or small whisk, mix until the cream cheese is smooth, fluffy, and lightly sweetened. The texture should be spreadable and creamy, without lumps.
If your cream cheese is too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a bit longer or microwave it for a few seconds (not long enough to melt—just enough to soften).
3. Prepare the Bread
Take your 12 slices of soft white bread and remove the crusts from all sides if you haven’t already.
Using a rolling pin, gently roll each slice of bread until it is thin and slightly flattened. This step is important—it makes the bread more flexible and easier to roll tightly around the filling without cracking.
Arrange the flattened slices on your work surface in a single layer so you can fill and roll them efficiently.
4. Fill and Roll the Bread
Working with one slice at a time:
- Spread a thin but even layer of the cream cheese mixture over the surface of the bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Spoon a line of the sweetened strawberries along one edge of the bread slice—ideally along the edge closest to you. Avoid adding too much juice to prevent sogginess; use mostly the fruit pieces.
- Starting at the strawberry edge, roll the bread slice tightly into a log, pressing gently as you roll to hold everything together.
Repeat this process with the remaining slices until all 12 roll-ups are assembled. You should now have a tray of neatly rolled, strawberry-filled bread logs ready for dipping.
5. Prepare the French Toast Egg Mixture
In a shallow bowl or dish (wide enough to fit the roll-ups), whisk together:
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the cinnamon is evenly distributed. This will be your French toast coating for the roll-ups.
6. Dip the Roll-Ups
Place a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1–2 tablespoons of butter. Allow it to melt and coat the pan.
While the pan heats, dip each roll-up into the egg mixture:
- Quickly roll each log through the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated but not oversoaked.
- Let any excess drip off back into the dish.
Set the dipped roll-ups aside on a plate while you prepare to cook them in batches.
7. Cook Until Golden and Crisp
Once the butter is hot and foamy (but not browned or burnt), add a few roll-ups to the pan, seam-side down. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet—leave space to turn them.
Cook the roll-ups for 1–2 minutes per side, turning them with tongs or a spatula so that all sides become:
- Golden brown
- Lightly crisp
- Sealed at the seam
Add more butter as needed between batches to keep the pan lightly greased and maintain that rich flavor.
Transfer cooked roll-ups to a plate or tray lined with a paper towel while you finish the rest.
8. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar (Optional but Amazing)
In a shallow bowl, mix together:
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
While the roll-ups are still warm (but cool enough to handle), roll each one lightly in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until well coated.
This step gives them a sweet, slightly crunchy outer layer that makes them taste like a cross between French toast and churros.
If you prefer less sweetness, you can skip this step and simply dust them with powdered sugar instead.
9. Serve Warm with Toppings
Arrange the roll-ups on a serving plate or platter. Top or serve with:
- A light dusting of powdered sugar
- Fresh strawberry slices
- Maple syrup, chocolate sauce, or strawberry sauce on the side
- Whipped cream, if you want them extra indulgent
These Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Roll-Ups are best enjoyed warm, when the cream cheese is soft, the strawberries are juicy, and the bread is still crisp on the outside.
Flavor Variations and Creative Twists
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Once you master the basic technique, you can create endless variations to match your cravings, the season, or the ingredients you already have.
1. Mixed Berry Roll-Ups
Instead of using only strawberries, try a mix of berries:
- Strawberries
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
Chop them finely and toss them with a bit of sugar, just like the original recipe. Mixed berries add a colorful look and a more complex, tangy-sweet flavor.
2. Strawberry Nutella Roll-Ups
For chocolate lovers, spread a thin layer of Nutella on the bread before adding the cream cheese or use Nutella in place of cream cheese:
- Cream cheese + Nutella swirl
- Or Nutella only with strawberries
This variation tastes like a chocolate-covered strawberry wrapped in French toast.
3. Lemon Strawberry Cheesecake Roll-Ups
Add a zesty twist by incorporating lemon:
- Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest and 1–2 teaspoons of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture.
The bright citrus cuts through the richness and makes the roll-ups taste like lemon-strawberry cheesecake.
4. Cinnamon Apple & Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
For a cozy, autumn variation, swap strawberries for:
- Finely chopped apples sautéed with butter, cinnamon, and a little sugar
Spread the cream cheese mixture and top with warm cinnamon apples before rolling. This version is perfect for fall mornings or holiday brunches.
5. Savory Brunch Roll-Ups (No Sugar)
If you enjoy a savory breakfast, you can use the same technique with entirely different flavors:
- Replace the cream cheese mixture with plain cream cheese mixed with herbs, shredded cheese, or cooked bacon bits.
- Skip the cinnamon sugar coating and powdered sugar.
- Season the egg mixture with salt, pepper, and maybe a pinch of paprika instead of cinnamon.
This creates a savory, cheesy roll-up that pairs beautifully with eggs or salad.
6. Baked Version
If you prefer a hands-off approach or want to cook a large batch at once:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange dipped roll-ups on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Lightly brush the tops with melted butter.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden.
- Roll in cinnamon sugar or dust with powdered sugar after baking.
The baked method is slightly lighter than pan-frying and works well if you’re feeding a crowd.
How to Serve
Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Roll-Ups are as versatile in serving as they are in flavor. Here are some ideas for when and how to enjoy them:
1. Weekend Breakfast or Brunch
Serve the roll-ups warm on a platter with:
- Fresh strawberries
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream
They make a great centerpiece for a brunch table alongside eggs, bacon, and fresh juice.
2. Kid-Friendly Finger Food
Kids love foods they can eat with their hands, and these roll-ups are perfect:
- Slice them in half for smaller portions.
- Serve with a small dipping cup of syrup or yogurt.
They’re fun, not too messy, and feel like a treat while still including fruit and protein.
3. Dessert-Style Presentation
You can easily shift these from breakfast to dessert:
- Plate 2–3 roll-ups with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce, strawberry sauce, or caramel.
- Add a few extra strawberries on the side for color and freshness.
The result is a dessert that feels indulgent but familiar.
4. On-the-Go Breakfast
If you’re in a hurry, these can also be taken on the go:
- Skip a heavy syrup topping.
- Let them cool slightly, then pack a few roll-ups in a container.
They’re easy to reheat in the microwave for a quick, comforting breakfast.
Tips & Variations
A few simple tips can help you get the best texture and flavor from your Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Roll-Ups.
Choose the Right Bread
- Use soft, fresh sandwich bread for the best rolling results.
- Avoid very dense or crusty bread, which may crack when rolled.
- White bread works best, but soft brioche or milk bread are delicious options too.
Don’t Overfill
It’s tempting to pack in plenty of filling, but overloading with cream cheese or strawberries can make rolling difficult and cause the filling to leak out while cooking.
Aim for a thin layer of cream cheese and a modest line of strawberries—enough for flavor, but not so much that the roll can’t seal.
Roll Tightly
Rolling tightly helps:
- Keep the filling inside
- Ensure even cooking
- Create a neat, professional look
Press lightly at the seam to help the roll stay closed.
Dip Quickly, Don’t Soak
When dipping the roll-ups in the egg mixture, work quickly:
- A fast roll-through is enough to coat.
- If they sit too long, they may become soggy and fall apart in the pan.
Control the Heat
Cook over medium heat:
- Too high, and the outside will burn before the inside is warmed through.
- Too low, and the bread will dry out instead of becoming golden and crisp.
Adjust the heat as needed and keep an eye on the color.
Serve Immediately
These roll-ups are at their best fresh from the pan:
- Crisp on the outside
- Warm and creamy on the inside
If you need to hold them for a bit, keep them in a low oven (around 200°F / 95°C) until ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Roll-Ups take familiar breakfast flavors and present them in a fun, irresistible way. With soft bread, sweetened cream cheese, fresh strawberries, and a golden French toast coating, they deliver everything you love about a cozy breakfast in a neat, handheld form.
They’re an ideal option when you want something a little special without spending hours in the kitchen. Simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and plenty of room for creativity make this recipe one you can return to again and again—changing the fruit, adjusting the flavors, or tailoring the sweetness to your taste.
Whether you’re cooking for kids, hosting brunch, or just treating yourself to something indulgent, these roll-ups bring a little joy to the table. They’re proof that with a few slices of bread, some cream cheese, and a handful of strawberries, you can turn an ordinary morning into something memorable.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, you can. While soft white sandwich bread works best because it rolls easily, you can also use:
- Brioche
- Milk bread
- Soft whole wheat bread
Just make sure it’s fresh and flexible enough to roll without cracking.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but with a few adjustments:
- Thaw the strawberries completely.
- Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Chop them finely and mix with a bit of sugar as in the original recipe.
Keep in mind that frozen strawberries can be softer and juicier, so don’t overfill the rolls to avoid leaks.
Can these roll-ups be made ahead of time?
You can assemble the roll-ups ahead of time (bread rolled with cream cheese and strawberries) and store them:
- Covered in the refrigerator for up to 12–24 hours
When ready to serve, dip them in the egg mixture and cook fresh. This is perfect for mornings when you want to prep the night before.
Can I freeze Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Roll-Ups?
Yes, you can:
- Assemble and cook the roll-ups as directed.
- Let them cool completely.
- Arrange on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10–15 minutes, or heat in an air fryer until warmed through and crisp.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Absolutely. You can:
- Use less sugar in the cream cheese mixture.
- Skip or reduce the sugar added to the strawberries.
- Omit the cinnamon-sugar coating and simply dust lightly with powdered sugar.
Adjusting the sugar won’t change the structure significantly—it just makes the roll-ups less sweet, which might be perfect if you’re serving them with syrup.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes, with a few substitutions:
- Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
- Replace the milk with almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk.
- Use a plant-based butter for frying.
The texture may be slightly different, but the overall flavor and enjoyment remain very close.
