Berries & Cream Stuffed French Toast Casserole Recipe

Introduction

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a warm slice of French toast, especially when it’s stuffed with creamy goodness and topped with fresh berries. This Berries & Cream Stuffed French Toast Casserole has become a beloved staple in my family, perfect for brunches or special occasions. The first time I made it, the sweet aroma wafting through the kitchen had everyone eagerly anticipating breakfast. My kids loved the combination of creamy filling and juicy berries, while my husband appreciated the ease of preparation. It’s now a go-to recipe that never fails to impress family and friends, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Ingredients

For the French Toast Casserole:

• 1 (16-ounce) loaf of bread, sliced into 16 slices
• 7 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup half and half
• Powdered sugar (for garnish)

For the Filling:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup + 1/2 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup blackberries
• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 1/2 cup raspberries

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating 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 bread in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared pan. This will serve as the foundation for your delicious casserole.

Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes. Add in 1/4 cup of sugar, the egg, and 1 1/2 tablespoons of vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Pour this mixture over the layer of bread in the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Add the Berries

In a medium bowl, toss together the blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of sugar. Evenly distribute the berry mixture over the cream cheese filling, making sure to cover it generously.

Top with the Remaining Bread

Take the remaining 8 slices of bread and arrange them on top of the filling, pressing down gently to ensure they make contact with the cream cheese and berry layer beneath.

Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the milk and half and half, whisking until everything is combined and smooth.

Soak the Casserole

Slowly pour the egg mixture over the bread in the pan, ensuring even coverage. Use the back of a spoon to gently press down on the bread slices, allowing them to absorb the custard mixture.

Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until fully cooked and the top is a beautiful golden brown. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to sit for 10-20 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the casserole set up a bit more.

Serve

Dust the casserole with powdered sugar just before serving, adding a touch of sweetness to the already delightful dish. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy, comforting flavors.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350 calories
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 180 mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 85 minutes

How to Serve

• Serving Suggestions:
• Slice the casserole into squares and serve warm.
• Top with additional fresh berries.
• Drizzle with maple syrup for added sweetness.
• Serve alongside whipped cream or yogurt for extra creaminess.
• Pair with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a hearty meal.

Additional Tips

1. Bread Selection: Use day-old bread or a sturdier type like challah or brioche for better absorption of the custard.
2. Berry Options: Feel free to mix and match berries based on your preference or what’s in season.
3. Overnight Option: Prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Just bake it in the morning for a quick breakfast!
4. Freezing: Leftovers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for a delicious breakfast treat.
5. Add Spices: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom in the custard for an extra flavor twist.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Chips: Add chocolate chips to the filling for a decadent treat.
• Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
• Savory Twist: For a savory version, omit the sugar and berries, and add cooked spinach and feta cheese instead.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a variety of toppings such as:
• Fresh whipped cream
• Maple syrup or honey
• Additional fruits like sliced bananas or strawberries
• A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Allow to cool completely, then wrap in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen berries?

• Yes, frozen berries work well! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture.

1. What type of bread is best?

• Brioche, challah, or any thick-sliced bread works best for a custardy texture.

1. Can I make this dairy-free?

• Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk.

1. How do I know when it’s done baking?

• The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

1. Is it necessary to let it sit before serving?

• Yes, letting it sit for a few minutes helps it set and makes it easier to cut.

1. Can I make the filling ahead of time?

• Absolutely! Prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble.

1. Can I add spices to the filling?

• Yes, a little cinnamon or nutmeg in the filling can enhance the flavor.

1. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.

1. Can I halve the recipe?

• Yes, you can easily halve the ingredients and use a smaller baking dish.

1. How do I store leftovers?
   • Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Conclusion

This Berries & Cream Stuffed French Toast Casserole is a delightful dish that brings a touch of indulgence to breakfast or brunch. With its creamy filling and sweet berries, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat your family to something special, this casserole is an excellent choice. With its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors, it’s bound to become a cherished recipe in your household, just as it has in mine. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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