Berries and Cream Overnight French Toast Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Berries and Cream Overnight French Toast Bake is a luxurious, make-ahead breakfast dish that combines the rich custard flavor of classic French toast with the fresh, fruity brightness of mixed berries and a creamy filling. Perfect for holidays, brunch gatherings, or a cozy weekend morning, this dish is both beautiful and delicious with minimal morning effort.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

bread (preferably brioche or challah)cream cheeseeggsmilkheavy creamgranulated sugarsaltvanilla extractmixed berries (fresh or frozen)powdered sugar (for topping)butter

directions

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Cube the bread and spread half of it evenly in the prepared baking dish.

In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Drop spoonfuls over the bread layer.

Sprinkle half the mixed berries over the cream cheese layer.

Top with the remaining bread cubes and the rest of the berries.

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, remaining sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread and berries, pressing lightly to help the bread soak.

Cover and refrigerate overnight.

In the morning, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator while the oven heats.

Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the center.

Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with syrup or extra berries if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8-10 people.Preparation time: 20 minutesChill time: overnight (at least 6 hours)Baking time: 45-50 minutesTotal time: approximately 7 hours including chilling

Variations

Swap mixed berries with a single type like blueberries or raspberries.

Add a layer of sliced bananas or peaches for added sweetness.

Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for a crunchy topping.

Mix in a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spice flavor.

Use flavored cream cheese like strawberry or honey walnut for a twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen berries?

Yes, just use them directly from frozen to avoid too much moisture release.

What’s the best bread to use?

Brioche, challah, or any sturdy, slightly stale bread works best.

Can I make this without cream cheese?

Yes, you can omit it or replace it with mascarpone or ricotta for a lighter version.

Can this be baked immediately instead of overnight?

Yes, let the bread soak for at least 30 minutes before baking, but overnight chilling gives the best texture.

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Absolutely, almond, oat, or soy milk can be used along with dairy-free cream cheese.

Can I freeze it?

You can freeze the baked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Can I add syrup before baking?

It’s best to serve syrup after baking to avoid sogginess.

What can I serve with this?

Fresh fruit, yogurt, crispy bacon, or scrambled eggs make great sides.

How do I prevent it from getting too soggy?

Use stale bread and make sure not to over-saturate with custard.

Can I make individual servings?

Yes, use ramekins or muffin tins and adjust the bake time accordingly.

Conclusion

Berries and Cream Overnight French Toast Bake brings a creamy, fruity, and indulgent flavor to your breakfast table with the convenience of overnight prep. Ideal for entertaining or a stress-free morning, it’s a show-stopping dish that will delight both family and guests alike.

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