Description
Transform your mornings with this decadent baked strawberries and cream French toast. Soft brioche cubes, creamy custard, and sweet, juicy strawberries come together in this delightful breakfast dish. Perfect for brunch gatherings or as a treat-yourself moment, this easy make-ahead recipe delivers pure indulgence with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 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
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. - Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread half the cubed brioche bread evenly into the prepared dish.
- Scatter the cubed cream cheese and half the diced strawberries over the bread.
- Top with the remaining bread cubes, covering the filling completely.
- Make the Custard:
In a large bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, whole milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and kosher salt until smooth. - Combine and Chill:
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring every piece is soaked.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
- Bake the French Toast:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the remaining diced strawberries and confectioners’ sugar over the top.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Stale Bread Works Best: Slightly stale brioche absorbs custard more effectively.
- Fresh Strawberries Preferred: Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain them first.
- Chill for Best Results: Refrigerating overnight ensures a creamy, custardy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American