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Flavorful Red White and Blueberry French Toast Bake

red white and blueberry french toast bake - featured image

A festive and easy French toast bake featuring juicy strawberries and blueberries soaked in a rich custard, perfect for holiday mornings or weekend brunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf thick-cut brioche or challah bread (about 12 ounces / 340 grams), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup (150 grams) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (or frozen, thawed and drained)
  • 1 cup (150 grams) fresh blueberries (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup (30 grams) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • Butter, for greasing the baking dish

Instructions

  1. Cut brioche or challah into 1-inch cubes and spread on a baking sheet. Let sit uncovered for a few hours or overnight to dry out slightly.
  2. In a medium bowl, toss strawberries and blueberries with 1 tablespoon cornstarch until evenly coated.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or half-and-half, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
  4. Place bread cubes in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour custard mixture evenly over bread, pressing down gently to soak. Let sit at room temperature for at least 20 minutes or refrigerate overnight.
  5. Gently tuck the coated berries into the bread mixture evenly.
  6. Sprinkle brown sugar and chopped nuts over the top (optional).
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until custard is set and top is golden brown. Tent with foil if browning too fast.
  8. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use day-old bread for best custard absorption and texture. Toss berries with cornstarch to prevent sogginess. Cover with foil if top browns too quickly. Can be assembled the night before and refrigerated for convenience.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast bake, blueberry, strawberry, breakfast casserole, holiday brunch, easy breakfast, custard bake