Berry French Toast Casserole Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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