Spring Brunch Strawberry French Toast

Celebrate spring mornings with this Spring Brunch Strawberry French Toast Bake, a delightful casserole that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with a creamy vanilla custard all nestled in golden brioche cubes. Its easy preparation and warm, bubbling finish make it a perfect centerpiece for any leisurely brunch.

Save to Pinterest

This baked French toast dish is ideal for a spring gathering when strawberries are at their peak. The custard infused with vanilla and cinnamon seeps into every cube of bread, creating a moist and flavorful base beneath the crunchy topping. Let it rest before serving to fully develop its comforting textures and flavors.

Ingredients

• Bread & Dairy: 1 loaf (about 450 g) brioche or challah bread, cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) cubes, 6 large eggs, 480 ml (2 cups) whole milk, 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream, 100 g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar, 2 tsp pure vanilla extract, 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp salt
• Fruit: 350 g (2 cups) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• Topping: 60 g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour, 50 g (1/4 cup) brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 55 g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• Finish: Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional), maple syrup, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish.

2. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Scatter the sliced strawberries over the bread.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and strawberries. Gently press down to ensure all bread pieces soak up the custard.

4. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the topping. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or fingertips to work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

5. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.

6. Let cool for 10 minutes before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm with maple syrup.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For enhanced brightness, mix 1 tsp lemon zest into the custard before pouring. To save time, assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it covered. Bake directly from the fridge following the same baking time and temperature.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If strawberries are not available, you can substitute fresh raspberries or blueberries for a different fruity note. Use gluten-free bread if needed, but be mindful that baking times may vary slightly.

Serviervorschläge

Dust the finished French toast bake with powdered sugar for an elegant touch, and serve with warm maple syrup on the side. Pair it with a fresh green salad or a light fruit salad for a complete brunch experience.

Save to Pinterest

This Spring Brunch Strawberry French Toast Bake brings together the best of seasonal fruit and comforting textures, creating a memorable dish sure to impress and delight family and friends alike.

Recipe FAQs

→ What bread works best for this bake?

Brioche or challah bread cut into cubes is recommended for a tender, rich texture that absorbs the custard well.

→ Can other fruits be used instead of strawberries?

Yes, raspberries or blueberries can be substituted for a different berry flavor while maintaining a fresh touch.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely, it can be assembled the night before and refrigerated. Bake it fresh the next morning for convenience.

→ What is the purpose of the crumbly topping?

The topping of flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter creates a crispy, sweet contrast that enhances the custard-soaked bread.

→ How should this dish be served?

Serve warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar and accompanied by maple syrup for added sweetness.