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Cozy Sweetheart French Toast Bake with Fresh Strawberries

Cozy Sweetheart French Toast Bake - featured image
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A warm, berry-studded French toast casserole baked to golden perfection, bursting with fresh strawberry goodness. Perfect for busy mornings or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups brioche or challah, cubed (about 10 oz / 280 g)
  • 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (about 225 g)
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk or half-and-half
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing the baking dish)
  • Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, extra fresh strawberries

Instructions

  1. Cube the brioche into roughly 1-inch pieces. Hull and slice the strawberries. Toss the bread cubes and strawberries gently in a large mixing bowl to combine evenly.
  2. In another large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and slightly frothy.
  3. Pour the custard over the bread and strawberry mixture. Gently fold until the bread is coated without crushing the strawberries. Let sit for at least 20 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 8 hours or overnight.
  4. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon melted butter. Transfer the soaked bread mixture evenly into the dish, pressing lightly to pack it down without squashing.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and custard is set (a knife inserted should come out clean).
  6. Let the bake cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve topped with powdered sugar, extra fresh strawberries, and warm maple syrup if desired.

Notes

Use day-old brioche or challah for best texture. Letting the bread soak overnight in the custard improves softness without sogginess. If the top browns too fast, tent with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking. For a crunchier crust, sprinkle brown sugar on top before baking. Frozen strawberries can be used if thawed and drained. Avoid overmixing to prevent gummy texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast bake, strawberry French toast, breakfast casserole, brioche French toast, easy breakfast, baked French toast, brunch recipe

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/cozy-sweetheart-french-toast-bake-with-fresh-strawberries-easy-recipe-for-breakfast-lovers/