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Delicious Copycat IHOP Stuffed French Toast Recipe

copycat ihop stuffed french toast recipe - featured image

A cozy and indulgent stuffed French toast recipe inspired by IHOP, featuring a creamy cinnamon-vanilla custard and a sweet cream cheese filling. Perfect for special breakfasts or weekend brunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices thick Texas toast or brioche
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or half-and-half
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 8 ounces (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
  • Butter or non-stick spray for cooking
  • Maple syrup for serving
  • Fresh berries or sliced bananas (optional)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cream cheese filling: Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. Refrigerate.
  2. Make the custard: Whisk eggs, milk or half-and-half, granulated sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until combined.
  3. Stuff the bread: Cut a pocket in each slice of Texas toast without cutting through. Spread about 2 tablespoons of cream cheese filling inside each pocket and press to close.
  4. Soak the stuffed bread: Dip each slice into the custard mixture for about 30 seconds per side, ensuring it absorbs but does not become soggy.
  5. Cook the French toast: Heat butter or spray in a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook soaked bread slices 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
  6. Serve warm: Dust with powdered sugar, add fresh berries or sliced bananas, and drizzle with maple syrup.

Notes

Use thick Texas toast or brioche for best results. Soak bread about 30 seconds per side to avoid sogginess. Keep cooked slices warm in a low oven if making a big batch. For vegan or dairy-free versions, substitute plant-based cream cheese and non-dairy milk. Avoid microwaving leftovers to keep crust crisp.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed french toast, IHOP copycat, breakfast recipe, brunch, cream cheese filling, cinnamon vanilla custard