Description
This Berry French Toast Casserole is a delightful baked breakfast dish combining cubes of French bread with a medley of fresh mixed berries. Soaked in a rich custard of eggs, milk, maple syrup, and cinnamon, it’s baked to a golden perfection and finished with a dusting of powdered sugar for a sweet touch. Perfect for brunch or a cozy weekend treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Berries
- 1 loaf French bread, cut into cubes
- 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Serving
- Powdered sugar for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
- Layer Bread and Berries: Spread the cubed French bread evenly in the greased dish, then scatter the mixed berries over the bread cubes to distribute the fruit throughout.
- Prepare Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Combine and Soak: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and berry layers, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set in the middle.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving warm for a sweet finish.
Notes
- You can prepare the casserole the night before by assembling it and refrigerating, then baking in the morning – add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
- Feel free to swap the mixed berries with any fruit of your choice, like sliced peaches or apples.
- Use whole milk or a milk alternative such as almond milk for a different flavor or dietary needs.
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the custard mixture.
- Ensure the baking dish is well greased or use a non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
