Description
Indulgent summer berry stuffed french toast casserole brings sweet breakfast magic to weekend mornings. Layers of creamy custard, fresh berries, and crisp bread create a delightful morning feast you can easily share with family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Base Ingredients:
- 1 large loaf brioche bread (or challah bread)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling and Fruit Ingredients:
- 4 ounces (113 grams) whipped cream cheese
- 1/4 cup fruit jam or jelly
- 3 cups fresh mixed berries (strawberries and blueberries)
Topping Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- Maple syrup (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish by lightly greasing its surface to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Create the first foundation layer by strategically positioning bread slices across the bottom of the dish, ensuring complete coverage.
- Generously spread a smooth cream cheese layer followed by an even distribution of fruity jam across the bread base.
- Artfully scatter vibrant fresh berries over the jam-coated surface, creating a colorful and flavorful landscape.
- Complete the layering process by carefully placing the remaining bread slices on top, forming a delectable sandwich-like structure.
- Craft the custard mixture by whisking eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until thoroughly combined and silky smooth.
- Gently cascade the egg mixture over the entire casserole, ensuring each bread layer absorbs the liquid evenly.
- Allow the casserole to rest and absorb flavors for a minimum of 30 minutes, or ideally refrigerate overnight for enhanced taste development.
- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 45-50 minutes, watching for a golden-brown top and a firm, set custard texture.
- Finish the dish with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar and serve accompanied by rich maple syrup for an indulgent breakfast experience.
Notes
- Refrigerate overnight for maximum flavor absorption and softer texture, allowing bread to soak up egg mixture completely.
- Use stale or day-old bread to prevent soggy consistency and help casserole hold its shape during baking.
- Swap cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or almond-based spread to accommodate lactose-intolerant diets.
- Mix different berry combinations like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for varied taste and vibrant color presentation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg