Mixed Berries Cream French Toast Bake: My Cozy Brunch Go-To (Print Version)
Whip up my Mixed Berries Cream French Toast Bake for a truly comforting brunch. Easy, creamy, and bursting with berries!
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 40 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ Main Bake Ingredients
01 -
1 loaf (about 1 pound) thick-cut bread (Brioche or Challah preferred), cut into 1-inch thick slices
02 -
2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
→ Creamy Custard Essentials
03 -
6 large eggs
04 -
1 ½ cups heavy cream
05 -
½ cup whole milk
06 -
½ cup granulated sugar
07 -
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
08 -
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
09 -
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
→ Finishing Touches
10 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
11 -
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
12 -
Pure maple syrup, for serving
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, grab your trusty 9x13 inch baking dish and give it a good spray or rub with butter. Don't be shy here; you want that glorious Mixed Berries Cream French Toast Bake to slide right out. Now, slice your brioche or challah into thick, roughly 1-inch pieces. I usually just eyeball it, no need for perfection! Arrange these slices in a single layer in your prepared dish. They can be snug, but don't cram them in there like sardines. This is where you start to see the magic taking shape, envisioning those fluffy, soaked pieces.
02 -
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Whisk it really well until everything is combined and the sugar has dissolved. You want a smooth, pale yellow mixture. I always give it a little taste test here – just a tiny bit, promise! – to make sure the sweetness is just right. This creamy concoction is what transforms simple bread into a decadent Mixed Berries Cream French Toast Bake. It should smell wonderfully warm and sweet already, making your kitchen feel cozy.
03 -
Carefully pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices in the baking dish. Make sure every single piece of bread gets drenched. This is where the magic happens, allowing that bread to soak up all the deliciousness. Now, scatter your mixed berries generously over the top. I usually go a little overboard with the berries because, well, berries! Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. This overnight soak (or at least 4 hours!) is critical for the best, most custardy Mixed Berries Cream French Toast Bake. Don't skip it like I almost did that one time!
04 -
When you're ready to bake, pull the dish out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you want to bake it to let it come to room temperature a bit. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Dot small pieces of butter over the top of the bread and berries. This helps with browning and adds extra richness. Pop the uncovered dish into the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point? Unbeatable!
05 -
Once it's beautifully golden and puffed up, carefully remove the Mixed Berries Cream French Toast Bake from the oven. It will look glorious, trust me! Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the custard to fully set and makes it easier to serve. It's tough to wait, I know, but it’s worth it for that perfect slice. Sometimes mine gets a little *too* browned on top, but honestly, it just adds to the rustic charm, right?
06 -
Now for the best part! Slice into generous portions and serve warm. This Mixed Berries Cream French Toast Bake is fantastic on its own, but I love to dust it with a little powdered sugar (a snowy wonderland!) and drizzle a generous amount of pure maple syrup over each serving. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream isn't out of the question either, especially if you're feeling extra fancy. Enjoy this cozy, comforting bake, and don't forget to savor every bite!
# Notes:
01 -
Always let the bread soak overnight for the best custardy texture – seriously, don't rush it!
02 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best results; microwaving makes it rubbery.
03 -
If you don't have brioche, challah is a fantastic second choice; avoid thin sandwich breads as they get too soggy.
04 -
For an extra special touch, add a sprinkle of lemon zest to the custard for a brighter flavor, especially with the berries.
# Equipment Needed:
01 -
9x13 inch baking dish
02 -
large mixing bowl
03 -
whisk
# Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 450 kcal
Total Fat: 25g
Total Carbohydrate: 45g
Protein: 12g