2 cups Florida strawberries, diced
8 ounces Florida goat cheese, softened
3 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons vanilla extract, divided
1 loaf brioche bread, sliced 1 ½-inch thick
1 cup whole milk
3 eggs
4-6 tablespoons unsalted butter
Toppings (such as Florida honey, Florida strawberries, powdered sugar or syrup)
Pinch of sea salt
In a small bowl, combine softened goat cheese, brown sugar and 1 tablespoon vanilla. Mix thoroughly and set aside. Prepare bread by making a pocket in each slice (do not cut all the way through). Using a small spoon fill each slice of bread with 1 tablespoon goat cheese mixture, spreading evenly. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons diced strawberries and seal by pressing edges together. Continue until all slices have been stuffed. Reserve ½ cup strawberries for toppings. Place into a baking dish.
In a small bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, 1 tablespoon vanilla and a pinch of salt. Pour mixture over stuffed bread slices and allow to soak for a minimum of 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Preheat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat with 2 tablespoons butter. Cook each slice of bread on both sides until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Serve immediately with toppings of your choice.
Fresh tip: Any variety of bread will work using this recipe to include: sourdough, whole wheat or French bread. You can also substitute cream cheese for goat cheese.
Send this recipe to an email address.
Get the monthly Fresh From Florida Club newsletter delivered right to your inbox. Each issue features two seasonal recipes that are simple to prepare and use "Fresh From Florida" ingredients.
See How it works Sign Up