Ingredients
1 loaf French bread, cubed (about 8 cups)
2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
Optional Topping:
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup flour
1/2 tsp cinnamon
3 tbsp butter (cold, cubed)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer bread & berries: Spread half the bread cubes in the dish, add berries, then top with remaining bread.
Make custard: Whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
Pour & soak: Pour evenly over the bread. Press lightly so all bread absorbs the mixture.
Optional chill: Cover and refrigerate overnight (or rest 15–30 minutes).
Add topping (optional): Mix topping ingredients and sprinkle over casserole.
Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes until golden and set in the center.
Cool slightly, then serve warm with syrup, powdered sugar, or extra berries.
Notes
Cooking Tips
- Use day-old bread for better texture and absorption.
- Don’t skip pressing the bread down—this ensures even soaking.
- Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
- Let it rest 10 minutes after baking for cleaner slices.
Variations
- Cream Cheese Berry Bake: Add cubes of cream cheese between layers.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute plant-based milk and cream.
- Extra Crunch: Add sliced almonds or pecans to the topping.
- Citrus Twist: Add orange zest to the custard for brightness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320–380
- Sugar: 18g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2–3g
- Protein: 10g