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Make-Ahead Berry French Toast Bake for Mother’s Day Brunch

Close-up of a thick slice of Berry French toast bake showing layers of bread, mixed berries, and a golden crumb topping.
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Prepare this beautiful, custard-soaked bread the night before for a stress-free hospitality experience. This overnight french toast casserole, loaded with fresh spring berries and topped with a crunchy streusel, makes a perfect centerpiece for your easy breakfast casserole gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (about 1 pound) thick-cut brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Streusel Topping:
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1/4 cup rolled oats
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish. Scatter the blueberries and strawberries over the bread.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. This forms the custard base.
  3. Slowly pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and berries, pressing down gently to soak all the bread pieces.
  4. Prepare the streusel: In a separate small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, oats, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  5. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the bread mixture.
  6. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This soaking time is key for the best texture.
  7. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the plastic wrap.
  8. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set in the center. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil for the last 10 minutes.
  9. Let the berry french toast bake rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve warm.

Notes

  • For a truly Pinterest-worthy presentation, arrange a few extra fresh berries on top immediately after removing the bake from the oven.
  • This recipe is excellent for any spring morning recipes gathering.
  • You can find more make-ahead brunch ideas on my social media accounts.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/berry-french-toast-bake-mothers-day-brunch/