The sweet aroma of freshly baked bread mingling with the luscious scent of ripe strawberries captures the essence of a perfect morning. Imagine a warm, gooey slice of Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole, each bite bursting with flavor and topped with a dollop of whipped cream. It’s like brunch and dessert had a beautiful baby, and trust me, you’ll want to invite this delightful dish to your next gathering.
Picture this: you wake up on a lazy Sunday morning, sunlight streaming through the windows, and you suddenly get hit by an irresistible craving for something scrumptious. That’s when this Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole comes to the rescue! It’s perfect for those cozy family breakfasts or even as a show-stopper for brunch parties. Apple cinnamon muffins Sausage breakfast muffins You won’t just enjoy the flavors; you’ll create memories that will make your heart smile. Let’s dive into why this recipe is about to become your new breakfast obsession!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This casserole is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy mornings or special gatherings.
- The combination of strawberries and cream creates a delightful flavor profile that dances on your taste buds.
- Its visually appealing layers make it a centerpiece at any brunch table.
- Plus, you can easily swap out fruits based on seasonal availability or personal preference.
Ingredients for Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Brioche Bread: This rich, buttery bread provides the perfect base for soaking up custard flavors.
- Eggs: Large eggs are essential for creating that creamy custard texture we all love in French toast casseroles.
- Milk: Whole milk adds richness; however, you can use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the custard mixture and balances the tartness of the strawberries.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract amplifies the flavors and gives that comforting aroma.
- Fresh Strawberries: Ripe strawberries not only add sweetness but also provide vibrant color and freshness to each bite.
- Whipped Cream: A generous dollop on top adds a silky finish that makes every serving feel like dessert.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab a baking dish—something around 9×13 inches works perfectly—and spray it with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks later.
Step 2: Prepare Your Bread
Cut your brioche bread into cubes—think bite-sized chunks that will soak up all that creamy goodness. Toss them into your prepared baking dish evenly; no one likes an unevenly distributed breakfast!
Step 3: Whisk Together Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. This is where the magic happens! The mixture should be smooth and frothy; if it bubbles slightly, you’re doing great!
Step 4: Add Strawberries
Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in your fresh strawberries into the egg mixture. Make sure they get cozy with the custard because everyone deserves some love in there.
Step 5: Pour Over Bread
Pour your delightful custard-strawberry mix over those fluffy brioche cubes in the baking dish. Press down gently on the bread pieces so they can absorb all those fabulous flavors. Let it rest for about ten minutes while you sip on some coffee—you’ve earned it!
Step 6: Bake Away
Pop your casserole into that preheated oven and let it bake for about 35-40 minutes or until it’s golden brown on top and set in the middle. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with aromas that’ll have everyone rushing to find out what’s cooking!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with whipped cream for the perfect finishing touch.
With its rich flavors and stunning presentation, this Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole is bound to become a favorite among family and friends alike! Enjoy every sweet moment as you serve up slices of joy that’ll have everyone begging for seconds (or thirds!). Happy brunching!
You Must Know
- This Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole is not just a breakfast dish; it’s a delightful experience.
- It combines sweet strawberries with creamy goodness, making mornings feel special.
- Perfect for lazy Sundays or festive brunches, your taste buds will thank you for this treat.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the casserole the night before, allowing the bread to soak up all that delicious custard. Bake it in a preheated oven until golden brown and bubbly. Serve warm with fresh strawberries on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile. Get creative and make it your own!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring every bite stays deliciously moist and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect results, use day-old bread as it absorbs the custard better without becoming mushy.
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance sweetness and balance flavors.
- Don’t skip the toppings; whipped cream or syrup takes this dish to new heights!
I remember the first time I served this Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole at a family gathering. Everyone went back for seconds, and my cousin claimed it was “the best thing since sliced bread”—and that’s saying something!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole?
To make Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole, gather fresh strawberries, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cream cheese, and your favorite bread. You can also add sugar and cinnamon for extra flavor. Using day-old bread works best as it absorbs the egg mixture well. Cinnamon roll casserole Ensure your strawberries are ripe and sweet for a delicious outcome. This combination creates a delightful mix of flavors that everyone will love. For more inspiration, check out this Angel Food Cake French Toast recipe.
How long should I bake the casserole?
Bake the Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole for about 45 to 50 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on it towards the end to ensure it doesn’t over-brown. The casserole is done when it’s puffed up and golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. Let it cool slightly before serving so you can enjoy its rich flavors without burning your tongue.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can prepare Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole the night before. Simply assemble all the ingredients in a baking dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to soak up the egg mixture thoroughly. In the morning, preheat your oven and bake as directed. This method saves time and makes for an easy breakfast option on busy mornings.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole pairs wonderfully with maple syrup or whipped cream for added sweetness. You might also consider serving it alongside crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast. Fresh fruit on the side enhances the meal’s freshness, making it even more delightful. Enjoying a warm beverage like coffee or tea complements this dish perfectly. For more inspiration, check out this whipped Greek yogurt recipe.
Conclusion for Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole :
In conclusion, Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole offers a delightful blend of flavors that makes breakfast feel special. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can create a dish that impresses family and friends alike. Blueberry breakfast cake Whether enjoyed on a weekend or prepared in advance for busy mornings, this recipe is versatile and satisfying. Try this delicious casserole today and experience a sweet start to your day!
Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole
Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole is a heavenly breakfast treat that combines buttery brioche, fresh strawberries, and a rich custard. Perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, this easy-to-make casserole offers delightful flavors and an appealing presentation. Topped with whipped cream, each slice serves as a sweet start to your day that will leave everyone craving more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 loaf brioche bread (about 10 cups cubed)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk (or almond/oat milk)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- Whipped cream for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cut the brioche bread into bite-sized cubes and spread them evenly in the prepared dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gently fold in the strawberries and pour the mixture over the bread cubes. Press down lightly to soak.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before baking for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and set in the middle.
- Serve warm with whipped cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
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