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Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole with Berries

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An effortless and delicious overnight French toast casserole featuring custardy bread soaked in a spiced custard and layered with fresh or frozen mixed berries. Perfect for busy mornings or special brunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf day-old brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar)
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • Optional: powdered sugar for dusting after baking

Instructions

  1. Cut brioche or challah loaf into 1-inch cubes. Spread half of the bread cubes evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Scatter half of the mixed berries over the bread.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or half-and-half, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined and slightly frothy.
  3. Pour half of the custard mixture evenly over the bread and berries in the dish. Add the remaining bread cubes and berries on top, then pour the rest of the custard over everything, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
  4. Dot the top of the casserole with small pieces of unsalted butter.
  5. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove casserole from fridge and uncover. Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is puffed, golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Tent with foil if top browns too quickly.
  7. Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Optionally dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup.

Notes

Use slightly stale bread for best texture. Eggs and milk should be at room temperature before mixing. Soak overnight for best custard texture. Frozen berries should be thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture. Butter pieces on top create a golden crust. Optional toppings include powdered sugar or maple syrup. For dairy-free, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and butter with coconut oil. For gluten-free, use gluten-free bread.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight French toast casserole, berries, easy breakfast, brunch, make-ahead, custard, brioche, challah

Find it online: https://lunafeast.com/easy-overnight-french-toast-casserole-with-berries-recipe-for-perfect-breakfast/