Description
Berry French Toast Casserole bursting with juicy berries, sweet custard-soaked bread, and cinnamon. Easy, delicious, perfect for brunch!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large loaf (16–18 oz/450-500g) day-old challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups (600g) mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons (85g) cold butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup (50g) chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients Begin by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Cut your day-old challah or brioche into 1-inch cubes, making sure the pieces are uniform for even cooking. If using strawberries, hull and quarter them, while leaving smaller berries like blueberries whole. Combining different berry varieties creates beautiful color contrast and flavor complexity in your **Berry French Toast Casserole**.
- Step 2: Layer the Base Arrange half of your bread cubes in an even layer in your greased baking dish. Scatter approximately half of your mixed berries evenly across the bread layer. This strategic layering ensures berries throughout the casserole rather than just on top. Add the remaining bread cubes, creating a second layer, then top with the remaining berries, pressing them gently into the bread.
- Step 3: Create the Custard In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until completely combined and slightly frothy. Take your time with this step to ensure the eggs are fully incorporated and the sugar is dissolved. This creates the luscious custard that transforms ordinary bread into spectacular French toast.
- Step 4: Combine and Soak Slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread and berries, making sure to cover all areas evenly. Gently press the bread down with a spatula to help absorption. For best results, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This resting period is crucial for the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in that perfect French toast texture.
- Step 5: Prepare the Streusel Topping When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make the streusel by combining brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in chopped pecans if using. This topping adds a delightful crunch and caramelized sweetness to your **Berry French Toast Casserole**.
- Step 6: Bake to Perfection Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the soaked casserole. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden brown. The casserole should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the custard to fully set.
Notes
Fresh ingredients will always yield the best flavor results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/8 of the casserole)
- Calories: 420 calories per serving
- Sugar: 28 grams
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 24 grams
- Saturated Fat: 12 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 42 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 10 grams
- Cholesterol: 230 mg