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Easy Fluffy French Toast Casserole Recipe with Berry Compote

Easy Fluffy French Toast Casserole - featured image
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A cozy and comforting baked French toast casserole soaked overnight in a lightly spiced custard, topped with a vibrant berry compote. Perfect for lazy weekend brunches or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 8 cups)
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries), fresh or frozen
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water
  • Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, whipped cream or Greek yogurt

Instructions

  1. Cut brioche or challah into 1-inch cubes. Use day-old bread for best soaking. Place cubes in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and frothy.
  3. Pour custard evenly over bread cubes. Press gently to soak bread. Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least 4 hours.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) about 45 minutes before baking. Remove casserole from fridge and let sit at room temperature.
  5. Drizzle melted butter over soaked bread.
  6. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until top is golden and center is set but moist. Insert knife or toothpick to check doneness.
  7. While baking, combine berries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer about 5 minutes until juices release.
  8. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook 1-2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest.
  9. Serve casserole warm topped or sided with berry compote. Dust with powdered sugar and add maple syrup or whipped cream if desired.

Notes

Use day-old bread to prevent sogginess. Soak bread overnight or at least 4 hours for best texture. Tent with foil if edges brown too quickly. Let casserole rest 5-10 minutes before serving for easier slicing. Berry compote can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to a week.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast casserole, berry compote, brunch recipe, easy breakfast, baked French toast, overnight soak, fluffy custard

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/easy-fluffy-french-toast-casserole-recipe-with-berry-compote-guide/