why make this recipe
Berry French Toast Casserole is a fantastic breakfast option for any gathering or family breakfast. It combines the classic flavors of French toast with fresh berries, making it both delicious and visually appealing. This recipe allows you to prepare everything the night before, so you can enjoy your time with family or friends in the morning. The combination of eggs, milk, and spices creates a creamy texture that soaks into the bread, making each bite melt in your mouth!
how to make Berry French Toast Casserole
Ingredients:
- 12 to 14 cups French bread
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups 2 percent milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1 to 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Maple syrup (as much as you want)
Directions:
- Grease a 9×13 inch casserole with vegetable oil or butter.
- Cut up the French bread into cubes and fill the casserole about 3/4 full.
- In a large bowl, combine the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Whisk until the mixture is well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the casserole.
- Slice the strawberries and top the casserole with strawberries and blueberries.
- Wrap the casserole with saran wrap and refrigerate for four hours or overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Bake for 35 to 50 minutes. Check at the 35-minute mark. If the casserole is not done, bake it for longer.
- Once baked, sprinkle with powdered sugar.
- Serve with maple syrup on the side and enjoy!
how to serve Berry French Toast Casserole
Serve the Berry French Toast Casserole warm, straight from the oven. You can cut it into squares to make serving easy. Pair it with a drizzle of maple syrup or add some whipped cream on top for extra sweetness. Fresh fruit can also be a great addition to your plate.
how to store Berry French Toast Casserole
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely first. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick breakfast.
tips to make Berry French Toast Casserole
- For a richer flavor, consider using brioche or challah bread instead of regular French bread.
- Make sure to use day-old bread for the best texture; it soaks up the egg mixture better.
- Feel free to experiment with different fruits, like raspberries or sliced bananas.
variation
You can make a chocolate chip version by adding 1 cup of chocolate chips along with the berries. For a nutty flavor, try adding sliced almonds or pecans on top before baking.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes, you can use egg substitutes like flaxseed meal or a store-bought egg replacer to make it egg-free.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread in place of regular French bread to make this casserole gluten-free.
Can I use frozen berries?
Yes, you can use frozen berries. Just be sure to thaw them and drain the excess liquid before adding them to the casserole.
Berry French Toast Casserole
Ingredients
Bread and Base
- 12-14 cups French bread Use day-old bread for better texture.
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs Can be substituted with egg replacers for egg-free version.
- 2 cups 2 percent milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
Fruits and Toppings
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced Can substitute with raspberries or sliced bananas.
- 1/2 cup blueberries Fresh or thawed frozen berries can be used.
- 1-2 tbsp powdered sugar For dusting before serving.
- Maple syrup To serve on the side as desired.
Instructions
Preparation
- Grease a 9×13 inch casserole with vegetable oil or butter.
- Cut the French bread into cubes and fill the casserole about 3/4 full.
- In a large bowl, combine the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Whisk until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the casserole.
- Slice the strawberries and top the casserole with strawberries and blueberries.
- Wrap the casserole with saran wrap and refrigerate for four hours or overnight.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Bake for 35 to 50 minutes, checking at the 35-minute mark. If not done, bake longer.
- Once baked, sprinkle with powdered sugar.