As the sun peeked through my kitchen window on a lazy Sunday morning, I thought of family brunches from my childhood. Warm, buttery bread soaked in eggs and fresh strawberries made my mouth water. I decided to make a delicious brunch recipe for my loved ones.
This strawberry french toast casserole is a make-ahead breakfast that turns simple ingredients into a sweet treat. It has layers of day-old bread, creamy cheese, and juicy strawberries. This easy brunch recipe is perfect for any occasion and has become a family favorite.
What is Strawberry French Toast Casserole?
Strawberry French Toast Casserole is a tasty twist on regular French toast. It’s great for weekend brunch or special events. It has layers of bread and strawberries, all in a creamy custard.
This dish gets better with time. The bread soaks up the custard, making it soft and tasty. It’s perfect for impressing guests.
The best part is the overnight rest. This lets the bread soak up all the flavors. It’s easy to make ahead, perfect for big gatherings.
It’s perfect for any event. The strawberries add freshness and sweetness. It’s a great way to make breakfast or brunch special.
| Recipe Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Rating | 4.77 out of 5 |
| Total Time | 9 hours and 5 minutes |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Resting Time | 8 hours |
| Serving Size | 12 |
| Main Ingredients | Strawberries, bread, cream cheese, milk, eggs, vanilla |
Why You’ll Love This Overnight Breakfast Casserole
This overnight breakfast casserole is amazing. It mixes great flavors and is easy to make. It’s loved by many, thanks to its tasty french toast and sweet strawberries.
The strawberries add a beautiful pink and red color. This makes the dish not only tasty but also pretty to look at.
Deliciously Sweeter with Strawberries
Fresh strawberries make this casserole even sweeter. They mix well with the other ingredients, creating a perfect taste. People love it, giving it a 4.90 out of 5 rating.
The strawberries also add a bright color. This makes every bite more fun to eat.
Easy to Prepare Ahead of Time
This casserole is easy to make. It takes just 20 minutes to prepare. Then, you can store it in the fridge overnight.
In the morning, just put it in the oven. The smell will make your home feel welcoming. It cooks for about 50 minutes, making it perfect for a quick breakfast.
It serves 12 people, great for sharing. It’s perfect for brunch or gatherings.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 806 |
| Carbohydrates | 124g |
| Protein | 14g |
| Fat | 29g |
| Saturated Fat | 16g |
| Cholesterol | 352mg |
| Sodium | 961mg |
| Potassium | 327mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 82g |
| Vitamin A | 1282IU |
| Vitamin C | 29mg |
| Calcium | 181mg |
| Iron | 5mg |
Key Ingredients for a Tasty French Toast Bake
Making the best strawberry french toast casserole needs the right ingredients. Day-old bread, fresh strawberries, and creamy stuff make it taste great. Here’s what you need for a yummy breakfast.
Choosing the Right Bread
The bread is key for a great french toast bake. I suggest using:
- 1 loaf of brioche
- French or Italian loaf (about 12-16 oz)
- Challah for extra flavor
These breads soak up the custard well. They make the dish soft and tasty.
Importance of Fresh Strawberries
Fresh strawberries are very important. About 2 cups of ripe, sliced strawberries add sweetness and color. They make the dish look and taste better.
Using Cream Cheese for Extra Creaminess
Adding 8 oz of room-temperature cream cheese makes it creamy. It also makes the dish taste richer. This makes the casserole very tempting.
How to Make Strawberry French Toast Casserole
Making an easy breakfast casserole is fun. This recipe is simple and tasty. Start by cubing stale bread, about 16 ounces. Put half in a greased 9×13 dish, then layer.
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
First, put cream cheese and 2 cups of sliced strawberries on the bread. Then, add the rest of the bread cubes. For the custard, mix 5 eggs, 1 ½ cups of milk, and ⅓ cup of maple syrup. Pour it over the layers.
Put plastic wrap on the dish. Chill it for at least 2 hours or overnight. This lets the bread soak up the custard.
Layering Your Ingredients for Best Flavor
Layering is key for a great strawberry french toast casserole. The bread at the bottom soaks up the custard. Make sure the cream cheese and strawberries are spread out.
This way, every bite is sweet from the strawberries and creamy from the cheese.
After chilling, bake the casserole at 350°F for 40-50 minutes. It will have a golden top. Each bite is a mix of flavors, perfect for breakfast.
Tips for Perfecting Your Breakfast Casserole Recipe
When making the perfect strawberry French toast casserole, some tips can really help. These tips will make your dish a hit with everyone. They cover soaking times and the best bread to use.
Soaking Time for Optimal Flavor
For the best taste, let the casserole soak for 8 hours or overnight. This lets the bread soak up the custard well. It makes the casserole rich and tasty.
Using Stale Bread vs. Fresh Bread
Choosing the right bread is key. Stale bread works best because it soaks up the custard well. If you only have fresh bread, dry it a bit in the oven. This trick helps avoid a soggy casserole.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Stale Bread | 16 oz |
| Large Eggs | 5 |
| Milk | 1 ½ cups |
| Ground Cinnamon | ½ teaspoon |
| Maple Syrup or Brown Sugar | â…“ cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Sliced Strawberries | 2 cups |
| White Flour (for streusel) | â…“ cup |
| White Sugar (for streusel) | â…“ cup |
| Cold Butter (for streusel) | 3 tablespoons |
| Baking Time | 40-50 minutes at 350°F |
| Internal Temperature | 165°F |
By following these tips, your strawberry French toast casserole will be a hit. These strategies will help you make a delicious breakfast for everyone.
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry French Toast
Serving Strawberry French Toast Casserole can make your breakfast special. The right toppings and sides make it a hit. I like to add extra maple syrup for sweetness. A sprinkle of powdered sugar makes it fancy.
Fresh berries or whipped cream add a nice touch. They make the dish even more delicious.
Toppings That Pair Perfectly
- Maple syrup for that classic sweetness
- Powdered sugar for a touch of elegance
- Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries for added freshness
- Whipped cream for a creamy texture
- Strawberry topping for an extra burst of flavor
Best Sides to Compliment Your Dish
Choosing the right sides makes the meal complete. I often pick crispy bacon or breakfast sausage. They balance the casserole’s sweetness well. Other good choices include:
- Hash browns or roasted potatoes for a hearty addition
- Fruit salad for a refreshing contrast
- Granola or yogurt parfaits for a lighter side
Storage and Reheating Instructions
I love making my make-ahead french toast for busy mornings. It’s important to know how to store it right. If you haven’t baked it yet, you can keep it in the fridge for up to two days. Make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to keep it moist.
For leftover casserole, refrigerate it too. This tasty dish can stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, put it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. This way, it stays soft and yummy.
But, don’t freeze it if you want the best taste and texture.
Making It a Make-Ahead Breakfast
Preparing an overnight french toast recipe is great for busy mornings. I mix the ingredients the night before. This way, they soak while I sleep.
The next morning, I bake it. Then, I enjoy a tasty, golden casserole without any trouble.
This make-ahead breakfast saves me time on busy days or when I have guests. It makes mornings feel less stressful. The dish is filled with strawberries, cream cheese, and rich bread.
Here’s how I usually plan my overnight french toast casserole:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Resting Time: 8 hours (overnight)
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 12 people
This method makes breakfast easy and stress-free. It’s perfect for family gatherings or brunches with friends!
Customizing Your Strawberry French Toast Casserole
This recipe is like a blank canvas. You can add blueberries or raspberries to make it sweeter and colorful. Mixing different fruits creates new flavors that everyone loves.
Adding Other Fruits and Flavors
Try adding bananas, cherries, or peaches to your casserole. Each fruit adds a special touch. For a kick, add nutmeg or almond extract. It makes making the casserole fun and tasty.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Alternatives
Going vegan doesn’t mean losing flavor. Use almond or coconut milk instead of regular milk. Vegan cream cheese keeps it creamy. Flaxseed or chia seed can replace eggs, so everyone can enjoy it.
| Ingredient | Traditional Option | Vegan Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Milk | Whole Milk | Almond Milk / Coconut Milk |
| Cream Cheese | Regular Cream Cheese | Vegan Cream Cheese |
| Eggs | 12 Large Eggs | Flaxseed / Chia Seed Mixture |
| Maple Syrup | Pure Maple Syrup | Pure Maple Syrup (remains same) |
| Bread | Brioche Bread | Vegan Bread |
Perfect Occasions for This Sweet Breakfast Dish
Strawberry French Toast Casserole is great for many events. It makes gatherings brighter with its tasty flavors and simple making. It’s a treat for the eyes and a cozy pick for relaxed gatherings.
Ideal for Holiday Brunches
This dish is perfect for special times like Easter or Mother’s Day. The strawberries add bright colors and creamy taste. It’s easy to make ahead, so you can enjoy the day more.
Great for Casual Gatherings
I love making this casserole for get-togethers with friends and family. It’s easy to bake and serve. It’s perfect for any time, making everyone feel happy and full.
| Occasion | Why It’s Perfect |
|---|---|
| Holiday Brunches | Easy to prepare and serve, visually appealing, and a crowd-pleaser |
| Casual Gatherings | Simple baking process allows for more time with guests, versatile dish |
| Family Celebrations | Brings people together over a delicious meal, hearty and filling |
| Weekend Breakfasts | Transforms routine mornings into special moments, quick prep |
Nutrition Facts of Strawberry French Toast Casserole
Enjoying a slice of Strawberry French Toast Casserole is a treat. But knowing its nutrition facts is important. Each serving has about 417 calories, making it a filling breakfast choice. It has 28g of fat, with 16g being saturated fat.
This dish is rich but should be eaten in moderation. It’s creamy and delicious.
The casserole is packed with good stuff from its ingredients. Fresh strawberries add vitamins. Eggs and cream cheese boost the protein. Here’s a detailed look at the nutrition facts for one serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 417 |
| Total Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 16g |
| Trans Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 193mg |
| Sodium | 257mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 23g |
| Protein | 8g |
| Vitamin A | 15% |
| Vitamin C | 10% |
| Calcium | 15% |
| Iron | 10% |
This casserole is a tasty choice for a healthy breakfast. Each ingredient adds to its nutritional value. It’s a great option, even better with fruit or a light salad.
Reader Reviews and Feedback
Many people love the Strawberry French Toast Casserole. They say it’s easy to make. You can prepare it before bed and wake up to a yummy breakfast.
Everyone loves the taste of fresh strawberries in it. The dish looks great too, thanks to the colorful strawberries on top. Adding maple syrup or powdered sugar makes it even better.
People like to try new things with this recipe. They use different breads and flavors. It’s a hit at any gathering, bringing joy to everyone.
