Name: Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h
Ingredients: 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10 cups): The perfect base for the custard to soak into without getting mushy.; 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced: Adds a sweet, slightly tangy flavor.; 6 large eggs: For richness and structure.; 2 cups milk (whole or 2%): Creates the custard base.; 1 cup heavy cream: Adds a luxurious creaminess to the custard.; ⅓ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dish just right.; 1 tsp vanilla extract: For warm, aromatic depth.; 1 tsp cinnamon (optional): Adds a gentle, comforting warmth.; 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds a creamy, decadent layer.; ¼ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese.; ½ tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the creaminess.; ¼ cup brown sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness and caramelization.; 2 tbsp butter, melted: Helps crisp up the topping.; Optional: Fresh strawberries, for garnish.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Casserole:

1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10 cups): The perfect base for the custard to soak into without getting mushy.
1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced: Adds a sweet, slightly tangy flavor.
6 large eggs: For richness and structure.
2 cups milk (whole or 2%): Creates the custard base.
1 cup heavy cream: Adds a luxurious creaminess to the custard.
⅓ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dish just right.
1 tsp vanilla extract: For warm, aromatic depth.
1 tsp cinnamon (optional): Adds a gentle, comforting warmth.

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

4 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds a creamy, decadent layer.
¼ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese.
½ tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the creaminess.

Topping:

¼ cup brown sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness and caramelization.
2 tbsp butter, melted: Helps crisp up the topping.
Optional: Fresh strawberries, for garnish.

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread and Layer the Casserole

Arrange the Bread: Spread the bread cubes evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This is the base that’ll soak up the custard.
Add the Strawberries: Sprinkle the sliced strawberries over the bread cubes, tucking some pieces between the bread to distribute the flavor throughout.

2. Make the Custard Mixture

Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until fully combined.
Pour Over Bread: Slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread and strawberries, ensuring every piece gets soaked.
Pro Tip: Press down lightly on the bread to help it absorb more of the custard.

3. Create the Cream Cheese Layer

Cream Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Dot with Cream Cheese: Using a spoon, dollop the cream cheese mixture over the casserole, spreading it gently over the top layer. This creates a creamy, sweet center that contrasts beautifully with the custardy bread.

4. Add the Topping

Mix Topping: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and melted butter.
Sprinkle Topping: Scatter the topping evenly over the casserole for a caramelized crunch when baked.

5. Cover and Chill

Refrigerate Overnight (optional): Cover the casserole tightly with foil and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if possible. This gives the bread time to fully absorb the custard.

6. Bake the Casserole

Preheat Oven to 350°F (175°C): About 20 minutes before baking.
Bake: Uncover the casserole and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set. The center should be slightly wobbly but firm.
Final Touch: If desired, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve an extra-crispy top layer.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 10
Calories: 340
Fat: 13g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 9g