Description
This Berries & Cream Stuffed French Toast Casserole is a luscious and comforting breakfast treat featuring layers of soft bread, a creamy vanilla cream cheese filling, and a medley of fresh blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Baked until golden and topped with a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s perfect for brunch or a special occasion morning meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 1 (16-ounce) loaf of bread, sliced into 16 slices
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Berries
- 1/2 cup blackberries
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup raspberries
- 1/2 tablespoon granulated sugar
Custard
- 7 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup half and half
Garnish
- Powdered sugar (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9 inch rectangular baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the base layer: Arrange 8 slices of the bread in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared pan and set aside.
- Make the cream cheese filling: Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add 1/4 cup granulated sugar, the large egg, and 1 1/2 tablespoons vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until smooth and creamy. Pour this mixture over the bread layer in the pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Add the berries: In a medium bowl, gently toss the blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Evenly distribute the sugared berries over the cream cheese filling layer.
- Top with the remaining bread: Arrange the remaining 8 slices of bread on top of the berries, pressing down gently to compact the layers.
- Make the custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 7 large eggs, ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually whisk in both the milk and half and half until fully combined.
- Soak the casserole: Slowly pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread layers in the casserole. Press the bread down gently with the back of a spoon to ensure it absorbs the custard fully.
- Bake the casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the casserole is fully set and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 10-20 minutes to set before serving. Dust the top with powdered sugar and serve warm for a delightful breakfast experience.
Notes
- You can use any sturdy bread like brioche or challah for best texture.
- The casserole can be prepared the night before and refrigerated overnight, then baked in the morning.
- For extra richness, use full-fat dairy products.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Adjust the sugar amount in the custard or filling if you prefer it less sweet.
