Description
A luscious and comforting Berry French Toast Casserole featuring thick bread soaked in a cinnamon-vanilla custard with mixed berries, baked to golden perfection. Ideal for a delightful brunch or breakfast treat that serves 8 and can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Berries
- 8 slices thick bread (like challah, brioche, or Texas toast), cubed
- 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Custard
- 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
Finishing Touches
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (for serving)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Layer bread and berries: Arrange the cubed thick bread evenly in the prepared baking dish, then spread the mixed berries over the top to distribute them well.
- Make the custard: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
- Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and berries. Press down lightly on the bread with a spatula or spoon to help it absorb the custard thoroughly.
- Chill the casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the custard to soak in.
- 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 20 to 25 minutes more until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve with toppings: Drizzle with melted butter and maple syrup just before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Use thick, sturdy bread like challah, brioche, or Texas toast for best texture.
- Refrigerating overnight enhances flavor absorption and makes morning prep easier.
- Substitute dairy-free milk and cream to make it lactose-free if needed.
- For a less sweet option, reduce sugar or omit powdered sugar dusting.
- Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
