Imagine waking up to the delightful aroma of freshly baked French toast, bursting with the vibrant flavors of juicy berries! Our Overnight Berry French Toast is the ultimate breakfast treat that transforms your morning routine into a special occasion. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set this delectable dish to soak overnight, allowing the rich custard to infuse every bite. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy family breakfast, this recipe serves eight and is sure to impress your guests. Get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 2 cups mixed berries
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Butter for greasing
Instructions
- Generously butter a 9x13 inch baking dish, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- Cut the loaf of bread into 1-inch cubes, allowing them to be roughly uniform in size for even soaking and cooking.
- Spread half of the bread cubes evenly across the buttered baking dish, creating a foundational layer.
- Sprinkle one cup of mixed berries over the first layer of bread cubes, distributing them evenly.
- Add the remaining bread cubes on top of the berries to create a second layer.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly saturated. Press down gently with a spatula to help absorption.
- Sprinkle the remaining cup of berries on top of the soaked bread.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, allowing the bread to fully absorb the custard mixture.
- When ready to bake, remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the plastic wrap and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Allow the French toast to cool for 10 minutes before serving. The dish can be garnished with additional fresh berries, maple syrup, or powdered sugar.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, opt for a sturdy bread like challah, brioche, or sourdough. These types will hold up well to soaking and provide a delightful chewiness.
- Mix and Match Berries: Feel free to use a variety of berries such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. You can even incorporate seasonal fruits for a fresh twist!
- Plan Ahead: Make sure to prepare this dish the night before to allow the bread to soak up the custard mixture fully. This will enhance the flavors and ensure a creamy texture.
- Let it Rest: After baking, let the French toast cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut into perfect squares.
- Garnish for Extra Flair: Elevate your dish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a drizzle of warm maple syrup, or a handful of fresh berries right before serving for a beautiful presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 165mg
