Description
This Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast is a delightful, custardy breakfast casserole featuring layers of brioche bread, rich cream cheese, and fresh strawberries soaked in a sweetened egg and milk mixture. Perfect for a special brunch or a comforting weekend treat, it combines creamy textures and fruity brightness baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Filling
- 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
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Topping
- 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish and layer bread: Lightly coat a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray. Place a layer of the cubed brioche bread evenly into the dish.
- Add cream cheese and strawberries: Spread the cubed cream cheese evenly over the bread layer, then sprinkle half of the diced strawberries evenly on top.
- Top with remaining bread: Cover the cream cheese and strawberries with the remaining bread cubes to completely encase the filling.
- Mix custard: In a large glass measuring cup or bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, whole milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and kosher salt until well combined.
- Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard.
- Preheat oven and bring to room temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it stand at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Bake covered: Place the covered baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes to start the cooking process and allow the custard to set.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the cover and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is firm to the touch.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately. Sprinkle the remaining fresh strawberries and confectioners’ sugar over the top for an added touch of sweetness and freshness.
Notes
- For best results, use brioche bread as it absorbs custard well and adds a rich flavor.
- Allowing the dish to soak overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the maple syrup accordingly.
- Ensure the baking dish is well-covered during the initial baking phase to retain moisture.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/8 of recipe)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 340 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 245 mg
