Berries & Cream Stuffed French Toast Casserole

Berries & Cream Stuffed French Toast Casserole is a decadent breakfast or brunch dish that combines the classic flavors of creamy, rich French toast with the fresh, tangy sweetness of berries. This casserole takes the traditional French toast to new heights by layering slices of soft, eggy bread with a luscious cream filling and a generous helping of mixed berries. Baked until golden and fluffy, this dish is finished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a drizzle of syrup for the ultimate indulgence. Perfect for special occasions or lazy weekend mornings, it’s a delightful treat that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

🍞 For the french toast casserole:

1 16-ounce loaf bread sliced into 16 slices

🥚 7 large eggs

🌿 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

🍯 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

🧂 1/4 teaspoon salt

🥛 1 cup milk

🍶 1 cup half and half

🌨️ powdered sugar (for garnish)

🫐 For the filling:

🧀 8 ounces cream cheese softened

🍯 1 1/2 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

🥚 1 large egg

🍚 1/4 cup + 1/2 tablespoon granulated sugar

🍇 1/2 cup blackberries

🫐 1/2 cup blueberries

🍇 1/2 cup raspberries

📝Instructions:

1️⃣ Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 13×9 rectangular pan. Place 8 of the bread slices in one even layer at the bottom of the pan. Set aside. 🍞🥧

2️⃣ Make cream cheese filling by adding cream cheese to a bowl of a stand mixer and beat with a paddle attachment until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add 1/4 cup sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat until blended. Pour mixture over prepared pan with slices of bread. Spread with a spatula to create an even layer. 🧀🍚

3️⃣ In a separate medium bowl, add berries and remaining 1/2 tablespoon of sugar. Toss to combine. Toss over the cream cheese filling. Top casserole with remaining 8 slices of bread and press down. 🍇🍞

4️⃣ In a large bowl, add 7 eggs, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until eggs are beaten and mixture is combined. Add milk and half and half and whisk gently to combine. Pour mixture slowly over casserole, ensuring that it’s evenly distributed. Push down with the back of a spoon to ensure bread soaks up all the egg mixture. 🥚🍶

5️⃣ Bake casserole in preheated oven until fully-cooked, about 50-60 minutes. Remove from oven and let it sit for 10-20 minutes before serving. 🍞🔥

Notes 💡:

➡️ 1. Use fluffy loaf bread for best results, as it soaks up the custard effectively. 🍞✨

➡️ 2. Ensure the cream cheese is fluffy before adding other ingredients for a smooth filling. 🧀🍚

➡️ 3. Allow the casserole to rest after baking to let the eggs set for perfect serving. 🥚🕒