Berry French Toast Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Berry French Toast Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Packed with fresh strawberries and blueberries, it’s perfect for a weekend brunch or a special holiday morning. Easy to assemble and full of flavor, it will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 12-14 cups French bread
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups 2% milk
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup strawberries, sliced
• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 1-2 tbsp powdered sugar
• Maple syrup, as much as you want

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Step 2: Cut the French bread into cubes and spread half of it evenly in the baking dish.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the sliced strawberries and blueberries over the bread layer.
4. Step 4: Add the remaining bread cubes on top of the berries to create a second layer.
5. Step 5: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and brown sugar until well combined.
6. Step 6: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and berries, pressing lightly to ensure the bread soaks up the custard.
7. Step 7: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup on the side.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use whole milk or half-and-half instead of 2% milk.
• Swap out the berries with your favorite fruits like raspberries or blackberries.
• Make it the night before by assembling and refrigerating it overnight before baking in the morning.
• Add a handful of chopped nuts for added texture and crunch.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in a toaster oven until warmed through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread for this casserole?

Yes, brioche or challah work great as they soak up the custard well and add a rich flavor.

Can I freeze the French toast casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

Berry French Toast Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 83 reviews

This Berry French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast or brunch dish featuring layers of fluffy French bread soaked in a cinnamon-vanilla egg mixture, studded with fresh strawberries and blueberries, baked to golden perfection and topped with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy weekend morning treat.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 65 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Bread

• 12–14 cups French bread, cubed

Custard Mixture

• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups 2% milk
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2/3 cup brown sugar

Fruit Topping

• 1 cup strawberries, sliced
• 1/2 cup blueberries

Garnish

• 1–2 tbsp powdered sugar
• Maple syrup, as desired

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: Cube 12-14 cups of French bread into bite-sized pieces and place them evenly in a greased baking dish, ensuring the bread is well distributed.
2. Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together 8 large eggs, 2 cups of 2% milk, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 2/3 cup of brown sugar until fully combined and smooth.
3. Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cubed bread in the baking dish, pressing down gently to ensure the bread soaks up the custard evenly.
4. Add the Berries: Scatter 1 cup of sliced strawberries and 1/2 cup of blueberries evenly over the top of the soaked bread and custard mixture for a fresh fruit flavor.
5. Chill and Soak: Cover the casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the bread to absorb the custard completely.
6. Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and bake, uncovered, for 45-55 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
7. Finish and Serve: Once baked, let the casserole cool slightly. Dust with 1-2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup drizzled generously on top.

Notes

• For best results, use slightly stale French bread as it soaks up the custard better without becoming too soggy.
• You can substitute the berries for other fresh fruits like raspberries or blackberries depending on your preference.
• If you prefer a richer custard, you can substitute some or all of the 2% milk with half-and-half or whole milk.
• This casserole can be prepared the night before and refrigerated, making it an excellent option for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.
• Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave for a warm treat later on.

Keywords: French toast casserole, berry breakfast casserole, baked French toast, strawberry blueberry casserole, brunch recipe