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This berry french toast casserole transforms ordinary bread into a spectacular breakfast that's perfect for weekend brunches or holiday mornings. The contrast between the crisp, buttery topping and the soft, custardy interior studded with juicy berries creates an irresistible combination that will have everyone asking for seconds.
I first made this casserole when hosting a surprise birthday breakfast for my sister. The moment everyone took their first bite, conversation stopped and was replaced by appreciative murmurs. Now it's requested at every family gathering.
Ingredients
- Day old bread (brioche, challah, or French bread): The slightly dried texture absorbs the custard perfectly without becoming soggy
- Mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries): Fresh or frozen work well, though fresh berries maintain better texture
- Eggs: Create the rich custard base that transforms plain bread into something magical
- Milk and heavy cream: The combination provides the perfect balance of richness and lightness
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard without overwhelming the natural berry flavors
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile
- Cinnamon: Brings a subtle warmth that complements both the bread and berries
- Flour and butter: For creating the irresistible crumbly topping that bakes to golden perfection
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Arrange your bread cubes evenly in a greased baking dish, making sure there are no large gaps. Distribute the berries throughout the bread pieces, pushing some down slightly so they're nestled between bread cubes. This ensures berries in every bite rather than having them all sink to the bottom.
- Mix the Custard:
- Whisk the eggs thoroughly first before adding other ingredients to ensure a smooth, lump free custard. When adding milk, cream, sugar, vanilla and cinnamon, whisk continuously until the mixture looks completely uniform. The custard should coat the back of a spoon when ready.
- Soak the Bread:
- Pour the custard slowly and evenly over the bread berry mixture, pausing occasionally to allow it to soak in. Press down gently on any dry spots to ensure all bread pieces are immersed. Cover tightly and refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight, which allows the bread to fully absorb the custard.
- Create the Topping:
- Combine sugar, flour and cinnamon in a bowl before adding the cold butter. Work quickly with your fingertips or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea sized butter pieces remaining. This varied texture creates the perfect crumbly topping with areas of extra crispness.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator while the oven preheats to allow it to warm slightly. Sprinkle the topping evenly across the surface before baking. The casserole is done when the top is golden brown, the berries are bubbling, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean without liquid custard.
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My secret ingredient is actually time. While you can make this with just two hours of soaking, allowing the bread to absorb the custard overnight creates a pudding like texture in the center that contrasts perfectly with the crisp top. My grandmother used to say good french toast needs "beauty sleep" just like we do.
Make Ahead Magic
This casserole actually improves with advance preparation. The longer the bread soaks in the custard mixture, the more pronounced the pudding like texture becomes in the final dish. You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours before baking. Keep the crumb topping separate in a small container in the refrigerator and sprinkle it on just before baking for maximum crispness.
Perfect Bread Choices
The bread you select dramatically impacts the final result. Brioche creates the richest, most dessert like casserole with its buttery flavor. Challah offers a slightly firmer texture that holds up well to the custard. French bread provides more distinct bread pieces in the final dish. For the best texture, leave bread out uncovered for several hours or overnight before cubing it. Fresh bread tends to become too soggy.
Serving Suggestions
Transform this casserole into a complete brunch by serving alongside savory options like a simple herb frittata or crispy bacon. For toppings, offer both maple syrup and homemade berry compote. A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an indulgent touch that melts beautifully into the warm casserole. For a special occasion brunch, serve with mimosas or berry infused sparkling water.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen berries?
Yes, you can use frozen berries. Thaw and drain them before adding to prevent excess moisture.
- → Can I substitute the bread type?
Yes, brioche, challah, or French bread work best, but any sturdy loaf can be used.
- → How far in advance can I prepare this?
You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated before baking.
- → What toppings pair well with this dish?
Powdered sugar and maple syrup are classic options, but whipped cream or extra fresh berries are also great.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute milk, cream, and butter with your favorite dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk and plant-based butter.