You know, there’s just something heartwarming about starting the day with a delicious, homemade breakfast. I remember waking up on the weekends to the smell of my mom’s famous Berry French Toast Casserole wafting through the house. It was our special weekend treat – a dish just fancy enough to feel like a celebration and cozy enough to make you feel right at home.
What I love about this dish is it’s perfect for those lazy weekends when you want something special but don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a great excuse to gather family or friends around the table, a bubbly pot of coffee brewing nearby. You’re sure to be heralded as the kitchen hero when this casserole is served fresh out of the oven!
Making this casserole is so simple that I even get my kids involved. There’s a bit of magic in watching a mishmash of ingredients transform into something truly delightful. You just need some basic ingredients and a bit of time – most of which is spent waiting while it bakes to perfection.
Anyone can whip this up – just combine bread, milk, eggs, some sweet berries, and a few other pantry staples. Voila! It’s ready for the oven, and soon after, its inviting aroma begins to fill your home. This French toast casserole is the kind of dish that reminds us of the joy of shared meals and the pleasure of creating something delightful for those we love.
How to Make Berry French Toast Casserole
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Ingredients
- 2 cups 2% milk
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 12-14 cups cubed French bread
- 1/2 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 8 large eggs
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Maple syrup (to taste)
Directions
- First things first, give a 9″x13″ baking dish a good coating with butter or oil. Then, fill it up with the cubed French bread until it’s about three-quarters full.
- Next, in a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar until they’re well blended. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the dish.
- Sprinkle the strawberries and blueberries on top, ensuring they are evenly distributed for that burst of fruity goodness in each bite.
- Cover the dish with some plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge to chill for at least four hours or, even better, overnight.
- Once you’re ready, preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the casserole for about 35 to 50 minutes. Start checking it at the 35-minute mark to ensure it doesn’t overbake.
- Before you dig in, dust the top with powdered sugar, and serve it with a generous drizzle of maple syrup. It’s a lovely indulgence to start the day right.
Storing Suggestion
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the casserole dish with foil and place it in a warm oven until thoroughly heated. Alternatively, individual servings can be microwaved for a quick breakfast option.
Cooking Tips
If the casserole seems too sweet, reduce the brown sugar slightly or use unsweetened almond milk instead of regular milk. Add a few crushed nuts on top for an extra crunch, or even a pinch of nutmeg for a warm spice note.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream. Serve with freshly squeezed orange juice or, for adults, a mimosa cocktail.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute challah or brioche for the French bread for a richer texture. If you don’t have fresh berries, frozen ones will work just fine. You might also swap vanilla extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
Seasonal Variations
During autumn, try adding diced apples or pears along with a hint of cloves. In summer, peaches or nectarines would be a delightful addition. Each season offers a chance to refresh the dish with new flavors and ingredients.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains eggs and dairy, which are common allergens. For a dairy-free version, opt for almond or oat milk. Substitute the milk and eggs with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk and flax eggs for vegan options.
FAQs
Can I prepare the casserole in advance?
Yes, definitely! This casserole is ideal for prepping the night before. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of baking, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it the next morning so it’s fresh and warm.
Do I need to use stale bread for this casserole?
While using slightly stale bread can help absorb more of the egg mixture, fresh bread is perfectly fine. If using fresh bread, you can lightly toast it beforehand to mimic the effect of stale bread.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and a layer of foil, then store them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What if my casserole is too soggy?
If your casserole turns out soggy, it might have been underbaked. Make sure to check for doneness before removing it from the oven. You can also try using less egg mixture next time or more bread.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can make this casserole gluten-free by replacing the French bread with your favorite gluten-free bread. Ensure all other ingredients, such as vanilla extract and cinnamon, are certified gluten-free as well.
Is it possible to make this a savory dish?
Sure! To make a savory version, skip the fruit and sugar. Instead, add cooked sausage, mushrooms, and spinach. You can also sprinkle some grated cheese on top before baking for a hearty twist on the traditional recipe.
Berry French Toast Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups 2% milk
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 12-14 cups cubed French bread
- 1/2 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 8 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Maple syrup to taste
Instructions
- Start by greasing a 9"x13" casserole dish with butter or vegetable oil. Add the cubed French bread, filling the dish about three-quarters full.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and brown sugar until well combined. Pour this egg mixture over the bread cubes in the casserole dish.
- Add the sliced strawberries and blueberries on top of the mixture, distributing them evenly.
- Cover the casserole with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for four hours or overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the casserole for 35 to 50 minutes. Check for doneness at 35 minutes, then continue baking if needed.
- Before serving, dust with powdered sugar and enjoy it with maple syrup! This dish is perfect for gatherings, especially on cozy weekend mornings.
