1 pound fresh strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons sugar
3/4 cup heavy cream
8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
4 eggs
1/4 cup milk
2 teaspoons cinnamon
4 (1 1/2-inch) thick slices stale brioche
3 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup coarsely chopped pecans
1/4 cup brown sugar

Special equipment: food processor

In a medium bowl, mix together strawberries and 1/2 cup of sugar. Set aside.

In a food processor, blend together heavy cream, cream cheese and 1 tablespoon sugar until thick and creamy.

In a baking dish, whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon and remaining 2 tablespoons sugar. Place bread slices in pan and soak on each side until well coated and soaked through. In a large skillet or griddle over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Remove and drain the bread slices and cook until golden turning once, about 5 to 7 minutes. Meanwhile, in a skillet over medium heat, add the pecans, brown sugar and 2 tablespoons butter. Stir until sugar has melted and pecans are coated and sticky. Serve French toast with dollop of cream, sticky pecans and strawberries.

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Ease of preparation: easy

Recipe courtesy Sunny Anderson