Description
This Berries & Cream French Toast Casserole is a delightful make-ahead breakfast or brunch dish layered with rich cream cheese, sweet berries, and custard-soaked bread, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf brioche or French bread, cubed (about 10 cups)
- 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen – blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract, divided
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (plus extra for serving)
- Powdered sugar (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread half of the cubed bread evenly in the dish.
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
- Dollop or spread the cream cheese mixture over the bread layer, then sprinkle half the berries on top.
- Layer the remaining bread and berries over the top.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, maple syrup, and the remaining 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread layers, pressing down slightly to ensure everything is soaked.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours to let the mixture soak.
- When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes or until golden and the center is set.
- Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with extra maple syrup before serving.
Notes
- Can be made the night before for an easy morning meal.
- Use stale bread for best texture – it absorbs the custard better.
- You can swap berries for seasonal fruits like peaches or apples.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
