Strawberry Shortcake Custard Toast Stack Recipe
Introduction
This Strawberry Shortcake Custard Toast Stack is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Layers of soft brioche soaked in creamy custard, topped with fresh strawberries, make for a warm and comforting treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
- 4 slices brioche bread
- 2 eggs
- 0.5 cup milk (for soaking)
- 2 tbsp sugar (for soaking)
- 1 cup milk (for custard cream)
- 2 tbsp sugar (for custard cream)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 egg yolk
- 1.5 cups strawberries, sliced
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, 0.5 cup milk, and 2 tablespoons sugar until well combined. Soak the brioche slices in this custard mixture for about 2 minutes, ensuring both sides are evenly coated but not soggy.
- Step 2: Preheat your baking sheet and toast the soaked brioche slices in a skillet or oven until golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges. Set aside.
- Step 3: Prepare the custard cream by heating 1 cup milk and 2 tablespoons sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until warm but not boiling. In a separate bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with the egg yolk until smooth.
- Step 4: Slowly pour a portion of the warm milk into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Return this mixture to the saucepan and cook on low heat, stirring continuously until the custard thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Step 5: To assemble, layer a slice of toasted brioche, spread a generous amount of custard cream on top, then add a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat to create stacks as desired.
- Step 6: Serve the stacks warm for the best texture and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Use day-old brioche for better soaking without falling apart.
- Swap strawberries for other fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries based on seasonality.
- For extra richness, add a splash of vanilla extract to the custard cream.
Storage
Best enjoyed fresh and warm as the brioche will lose its softness if stored. If necessary, keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in a low oven or toaster oven to restore some crispness before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use bread other than brioche?
Yes, other soft, slightly sweet breads like challah or white sandwich bread work well, but brioche gives the best flavor and texture.
How thick should the custard cream be?
The custard should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still smooth and creamy for easy spreading between toast layers.
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Strawberry Shortcake Custard Toast Stack Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Shortcake Custard Toast Stack is a delightful layered dessert featuring golden brioche toast soaked in a creamy custard, topped generously with fresh strawberries. This indulgent treat combines the rich flavors of homemade custard cream with sweet, juicy berries, perfect for a comforting breakfast or a light dessert.
Ingredients
Toast
- 4 slices brioche bread
- 2 eggs
- 0.5 cup milk
- 2 tbsp sugar
Custard Cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 egg yolk
Topping
- 1.5 cups strawberries, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Custard Mixture and Soak Bread: In a mixing bowl, beat the 2 eggs with 0.5 cup milk and 2 tablespoons sugar until well combined. Soak each slice of brioche bread in this custard mixture, allowing the bread to absorb the liquid evenly but not become overly soggy.
- Cook the Toast: Heat a baking sheet or skillet over medium heat. Place the soaked brioche slices and cook each side until golden brown and slightly crisp, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and let cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Make the Custard Cream: In a saucepan, combine 1 cup milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture starts to thicken. In a separate bowl, lightly beat 1 egg yolk. Gradually add a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk to temper it, then pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan. Continue cooking and stirring until thickened into smooth custard cream. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Assemble the Stack: On serving plates, place one slice of the toasted brioche. Spread a generous layer of the warm custard cream over the toast, then add a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat layering with remaining toast, custard, and strawberries to form a shortcake stack.
- Serve Warm: Serve the strawberry shortcake custard toast stack immediately while the custard is still warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- Best served fresh to maintain the soft texture of the custard-soaked toast.
- Use ripe, fresh strawberries for optimal sweetness and juiciness.
- Ensure to temper the egg yolk carefully to avoid curdling the custard cream.
- This dessert is best enjoyed warm but can be refrigerated for up to a day and gently reheated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Strawberry shortcake, custard toast, brioche dessert, layered toast dessert, homemade custard, fresh strawberries
