Description
A delicious and comforting Berry French Toast Casserole featuring thick cubes of brioche or challah bread soaked in a rich cinnamon-vanilla custard, layered with mixed berries, and baked to golden perfection. Served warm with a drizzle of maple syrup and butter, this make-ahead breakfast is perfect for family gatherings or weekend brunches.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Finishing Touches
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (for serving)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer Bread and Berries: Spread the cubed bread evenly in the baking dish, then distribute the mixed berries on top, ensuring an even layer.
- Mix Custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until fully blended.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and berries in the baking dish. Gently press down to help the bread absorb the custard fully.
- Refrigerate: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or for best results, overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and custard to soak in.
- Bake Covered: When ready to bake, preheat the oven again to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole covered with foil for 30 minutes to start setting the custard.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Drizzle the hot casserole with melted butter and maple syrup before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for added sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- The casserole can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning for convenience.
- Use thick, sturdy bread like challah or brioche that can soak up the custard without becoming mushy.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and heavy cream with your preferred dairy-free alternatives.
- Fresh or frozen mixed berries work well in this recipe; thaw frozen berries before layering.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
