Description
This Berry French Toast Casserole is a delightful, make-ahead breakfast dish featuring cubed thick bread soaked in a rich custard with mixed berries. Baked to golden perfection, it combines sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors for a crowd-pleasing morning treat perfect for gatherings or a cozy weekend brunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 8 slices thick bread (like challah, brioche, or Texas toast), cubed
Fruit
- 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
Toppings and Serving
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (for serving)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Assemble bread and berries: Layer the cubed bread evenly in the bottom of the baking dish, then spread the mixed berries evenly over the bread.
- Make the custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
- Combine custard and bread: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and berries. Press down gently on the bread cubes so they absorb the custard thoroughly.
- Chill before baking: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to allow flavors to meld and bread to soak.
- Bake covered: Remove from refrigerator and preheat oven again to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole covered for 30 minutes to set the custard.
- Finish baking uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Serve: Drizzle the baked casserole with melted butter and maple syrup. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving for a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Notes
- You can prepare this casserole the night before for a convenient breakfast ready to bake in the morning.
- Use thick, sturdy bread like challah or brioche to absorb custard well without becoming soggy.
- Feel free to swap the mixed berries for your favorite fresh or frozen fruit.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and heavy cream with your preferred plant-based alternatives.
- If you want a nuttier flavor and crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking.
