Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of French bread, cubed
- 1 cup of fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup of fresh blueberries
- 1 cup of fresh raspberries
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups of milk
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
- 1 cup of maple syrup for serving
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
Begin by preparing your French bread. Cut the loaf into cubes and place them in a generously greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the bread cubes evenly to create a solid base for your casserole.
Next, prepare your berries. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Give them a gentle mix to ensure that they are evenly distributed. Pour the mixed berries over the bread cubes in the baking dish, ensuring an even layer of delicious fruits is spread across the dish.
In another mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth. This will create a rich, flavorful custard that will soak into the bread and berries.
Now, slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread and berries in the baking dish. Pour evenly to ensure that every piece of bread is soaked. Use a spatula to gently press down on the bread cubes, helping them absorb the custard mixture fully.
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to fully meld together and ensures the bread absorbs the custard completely, resulting in a rich and delicious casserole.
Once you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap or aluminum foil from the baking dish and place it in the oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set. The edges should be slightly crisp, and the center should be cooked through.
Allow the Berry French Toast Casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup and dust with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet berries and custard-soaked bread in every bite.
This Berry French Toast Casserole is perfect for a weekend brunch, holiday breakfast, or any time you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly special. The combination of fresh berries, creamy custard, and a hint of spice makes this dish utterly irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it an ideal option for busy mornings.
Bon appétit!
