Description
This Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast treat that combines tender challah or brioche bread cubes with fresh strawberries and a creamy, sweet custard. Topped with a buttery crumb topping and baked to golden perfection, it’s perfect for weekend brunches or special occasions. The casserole can be prepared ahead of time, making mornings effortless and indulgent.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf challah or brioche, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
Topping Ingredients
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. Layer half of the bread cubes evenly in the dish, then evenly distribute half of the sliced strawberries over the bread.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Drop spoonfuls of this cream cheese mixture evenly over the bread and strawberry layer.
- Add Remaining Layers: Add the remaining bread cubes on top of the cream cheese layer, followed by the rest of the sliced strawberries, spreading them evenly.
- Prepare Custard and Combine: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, and maple syrup until well combined. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and strawberries. Press down lightly on the bread to ensure it soaks up the custard fully.
- Make Topping: In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Using a pastry cutter or fingers, cut in the cold butter pieces until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this crumb topping evenly over the entire casserole.
- Refrigerate: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the custard thoroughly.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare to Bake: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven heats up.
- Bake: Place the uncovered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let it set slightly.
Notes
- This casserole can be assembled the night before, making it perfect for easy mornings.
- Using challah or brioche bread ensures a rich and tender texture, but any sturdy white bread will work as a substitute.
- For an extra festive touch, garnish with fresh strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven or microwave.
- If you prefer, you can add a splash of orange liqueur or zest for a citrus twist.
