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Berry-Filled Overnight French Toast Casserole
why make this recipe
Overnight French Toast Casserole with Berries is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of classic French toast into a convenient casserole form. Making it the night before not only saves time in the morning but also allows the bread to soak up the creamy, sweet mixture overnight. It’s a perfect breakfast for lazy Sundays, holidays, or gatherings with family and friends. The addition of fresh berries adds a burst of flavor and nutrition, making this dish both delicious and visually appealing.
how to make Overnight French Toast Casserole with Berries
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- Butter for greasing the pan
Directions:
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
- Cut the bread into cubes and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring they are well coated.
- Sprinkle the sliced strawberries and blueberries evenly over the top.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the plastic wrap and bake the casserole for 40-45 minutes, until golden brown and set.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
how to serve Overnight French Toast Casserole with Berries
Serve the casserole warm, and if you like, drizzle some maple syrup or dust powdered sugar on top for extra sweetness. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy finish. This dish pairs wonderfully with coffee or fresh juice.
how to store Overnight French Toast Casserole with Berries
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds to a minute, or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
tips to make Overnight French Toast Casserole with Berries
- Use stale bread for the best texture. Stale bread absorbs the liquid mixture better.
- Feel free to mix in other fruits like raspberries or bananas based on your preference or what’s in season.
- For added flavor, include a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of orange juice in the egg mixture.
variation
You can easily make a chocolate chip version by substituting half of the berries with chocolate chips. For a richer taste, consider adding a layer of cream cheese between the bread cubes.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole without berries?
Yes, you can make it without berries or use any fruit you prefer. Apples or peaches work great too.
2. How long can I keep the casserole in the refrigerator before baking?
You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. Can I freeze Overnight French Toast Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
Overnight French Toast Casserole with Berries
A delightful casserole version of classic French toast, perfect for breakfast gatherings, made with berries for added flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf loaf of bread (preferably challah or brioche) Stale bread works best for texture.
- 6 large large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced Feel free to mix in other fruits like raspberries or bananas.
- 1 cup blueberries
- Butter for greasing the pan
Instructions
Preparation
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.
- Cut the bread into cubes and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring they are well coated.
- Sprinkle the sliced strawberries and blueberries evenly over the top.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the plastic wrap and bake the casserole for 40-45 minutes, until golden brown and set.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt. This dish pairs wonderfully with coffee or fresh juice. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
