Description
A sweet, creamy breakfast bake featuring layers of golden bread, rich custard, and fresh strawberries. Perfect for brunch, holidays, or an indulgent weekend treat. Top with whipped cream or a drizzle of cream for an extra decadent touch.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (for 6–8 servings):
For the French Toast Bake:
1 loaf of brioche or challah bread, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
Optional Topping:
Whipped cream or extra cream drizzle
Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prep Cream Cheese Layer
In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble French Toast Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer half of the bread slices in the dish. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the bread. Top with the remaining bread slices.
Scatter sliced strawberries evenly over the top layer.
Step 3: Make Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
Pour the custard evenly over the layered bread and strawberries, pressing lightly to ensure the bread soaks up the mixture.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until golden and set.
Step 5: Serve
Allow to cool 5 minutes, then top with whipped cream or a drizzle of cream. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Overnight Option: Assemble the bake the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake in the morning for a ready-to-eat breakfast.
- Add Crunch: Sprinkle crushed cinnamon toast crunch or nuts on top before baking for extra texture.
- Make Mini Portions: Use a muffin tin to make individual servings perfect for brunch parties.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast / Brunch
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
