Description
This Berry French Toast Casserole is a delightful make-ahead breakfast dish featuring thick, cubed bread soaked in a rich egg custard, layered with mixed berries, and baked to golden perfection. Ideal for brunch gatherings or a special weekend treat, it combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and vanilla with a fresh burst of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
Ingredients
Bread and Fruit
- 8 slices thick bread (like challah, brioche, or Texas toast), cubed
- 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk (or dairy-free milk)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Serving
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Layer Bread and Berries: Evenly layer the cubed bread in the baking dish and spread the mixed berries evenly over the top, ensuring a good distribution of fruit throughout.
- Mix Custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth and fully combined.
- Soak Bread: Pour the egg custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and berries. Press down gently on the bread cubes so they absorb the custard well, creating a soft, moist texture.
- Chill: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least one hour, or up to overnight, to allow the custard to soak into the bread completely.
- Bake Covered: When ready, preheat the oven again to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole covered with foil for 30 minutes to set the custard.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Drizzle the warm casserole with melted butter and maple syrup. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving to add a touch of sweetness and elegance.
Notes
- Use thick, sturdy bread like challah or brioche for best results as it soaks up the custard well without becoming mushy.
- Letting the casserole soak overnight enhances the flavor and texture, making it perfect for preparing in advance.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and heavy cream with almond or oat milk alternatives.
- Adding a pinch of nutmeg can complement the cinnamon for a spiced flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven or microwave.
