Ingredients
Scale
- 8 slices of thick-cut brioche or challah bread (day-old works best)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Maple syrup, for serving
Substitution tips: If you want a dairy-free version, use coconut cream cheese and almond milk. For a lower sugar option, reduce the granulated sugar or swap for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup in the batter.
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until smooth and well combined. This will be your churro filling. I remember teaching Ouma how to blend these ingredients smoothly; it’s the little details that make the texture perfect.
- Spread a generous tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto one slice of bread, then top with another slice to create a sandwich. Repeat with all slices.
- In a large shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, salt, and the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. This custard is the heart of the French toast, so make sure it’s well mixed.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt about 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Dip each stuffed sandwich into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for about 20 seconds per side. Be gentle so the filling doesn’t leak out—just like Mama Lou always reminded me to handle dough with care.
- Place the soaked sandwiches onto the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Add more butter as needed to keep the pan well-lubricated and the crust perfectly crisp.
- While still warm, mix the remaining cinnamon and sugar in a shallow dish. Dredge the crispy French toast in the cinnamon sugar mixture, coating all sides generously. This step is where the magic of churros truly shines through.
- Serve immediately with a dusting of powdered sugar and warm maple syrup on the side. The first time I made this for my family, the smiles and quiet “mmm” moments told me I had captured something truly special.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
