Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe

Introduction

This Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Layers of brioche, cream cheese, and fresh strawberries soak up a rich custard before baking to golden perfection. It’s perfect for a cozy brunch or special occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 (16-ounce) loaf brioche bread, cubed
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, cubed
• 1 pound strawberries, diced and divided
• 12 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar

Instructions

1. Step 1: Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Arrange a layer of brioche bread cubes evenly in the dish. Spread the cream cheese cubes and half of the diced strawberries over the bread layer. Add the remaining bread cubes on top to fully cover the filling.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl or glass measuring cup, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and kosher salt until combined. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and cream cheese in the baking dish.
3. Step 3: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
4. Step 4: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
5. Step 5: Bake the covered dish for 30 minutes. Then, remove the cover and continue baking for another 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
6. Step 6: Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining diced strawberries and a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of orange zest to the custard mixture before baking.
• Use frozen strawberries if fresh are not in season; just thaw and drain before layering.
• Swap brioche with challah or a sturdy white bread for a different texture.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use a vegan cream cheese alternative.

Storage

Store any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this the night before?

Yes, it’s ideal to let the custard soak into the bread overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to become rich and custardy.

What type of bread works best for this recipe?

Brioche is recommended for its buttery, soft texture that absorbs the custard beautifully. However, challah or a sturdy white bread also work well if brioche isn’t available.

Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 113 reviews

This Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast is a delightful breakfast casserole featuring layers of brioche bread, cream cheese, and fresh strawberries soaked in a rich custard mixture. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a luscious, crowd-pleasing dish ideal for brunch or special occasions.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including soaking time)
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

French Toast Base

• 1 (16-ounce) loaf brioche bread, cubed
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, cubed
• 1 pound strawberries, diced and divided

Custard Mixture

• 12 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Topping

• 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare the baking dish and layer ingredients: Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Place a layer of cubed brioche bread evenly into the dish. Evenly distribute the cubed cream cheese and half of the diced strawberries over the bread layer. Then cover with the remaining bread cubes to fully encase the filling.
2. Make the custard and soak the bread: In a large glass measuring cup or bowl, thoroughly whisk together the beaten eggs, whole milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and kosher salt until combined. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread layers in the baking dish. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
3. Preheat oven and let stand: When ready to bake, remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Bake the casserole: Place the covered baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, or until the French toast is golden brown on top and the center is set and firm.
5. Serve and garnish: Serve the baked French toast immediately, garnished with the remaining fresh strawberries and a dusting of confectioners’ sugar for a sweet finishing touch.

Notes

• For best results, use fresh brioche bread for its rich and tender texture that absorbs the custard well.
• You can prepare this dish the night before by assembling and soaking it overnight in the fridge for convenience.
• If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk and use vegan cream cheese.
• Adjust maple syrup quantity to taste or substitute with honey or agave syrup if desired.
• Ensure the cream cheese cubes are evenly distributed to avoid clumps and ensure even melting.
• Letting the dish stand before baking helps the custard soak deeper into the bread for a custardy center.

Keywords: baked french toast, strawberries and cream, brioche French toast casserole, breakfast casserole, baked brunch recipe, strawberry breakfast