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Berry French Toast Casserole Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • 1214 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

  • 12 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