Brunch is a meal that brings everyone together, combining the comfort of breakfast with the heartiness of lunch. If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish to share with loved ones, this Easy Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast is your answer. It’s a delightful mix of creamy, fruity, and sweet flavors, all baked to perfection. Whether it’s a holiday morning or a casual weekend get-together, this dish will be the star of your table.

Ingredients for Easy Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to brunch success. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredient	Quantity
Brioche bread (cubed)	1 (16-ounce) loaf
Cream cheese (cubed)	1 (8-ounce) package
Strawberries (diced)	1 pound, divided
Eggs (beaten)	12 large
Whole milk	2 cups
Maple syrup	1/3 cup
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Kosher salt	1/2 teaspoon
Confectioners’ sugar	1 tablespoon
Nonstick spray	As needed

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare Your Baking Dish

• Lightly coat a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

2. Assemble the Base Layer

1. Place a layer of brioche bread cubes evenly into the baking dish.
2. Add cubed cream cheese and half of the diced strawberries on top of the bread layer.
3. Cover with the remaining bread cubes to fully enclose the filling.

3. Create the Egg Mixture

• In a large bowl or measuring cup, whisk together:
  • Beaten eggs
  • Whole milk
  • Maple syrup
  • Vanilla extract
  • Kosher salt

4. Combine and Chill

1. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring everything is soaked.
2. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

5. Bake to Perfection

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes.
3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
4. Uncover and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is firm.

6. Serve and Garnish

• Sprinkle the baked French toast with confectioners’ sugar and top with the remaining diced strawberries for a vibrant and sweet finish.

Why This Recipe is a Brunch Favorite

• Simple Preparation: The majority of the work is done the night before, leaving you free to enjoy your morning.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The combination of creamy cheese, fresh strawberries, and sweet brioche is irresistible.
• Customizable: Swap strawberries for other fruits like blueberries or peaches to suit your taste.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	310
Total Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	190mg
Sodium	290mg
Total Carbohydrates	35g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	16g
Protein	10g

Tips for Perfect Baked French Toast

1. Use the Right Bread

• Brioche or challah works best due to its richness and ability to absorb the custard mixture without becoming soggy.

2. Chill for Best Results

• Refrigerating overnight allows the bread to soak up all the flavors, resulting in a custardy texture.

3. Avoid Overbaking

• Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean but moist.

4. Enhance the Topping

• Add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of additional maple syrup for extra indulgence.

5. Try Different Variations

• Substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
• Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty twist.

FAQs About Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.

2. What can I substitute for brioche bread?

Challah, French bread, or even croissants are excellent alternatives.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, freeze baked leftovers for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

5. What other fruits can I use?

Try blueberries, raspberries, or even a mix of tropical fruits like mango and pineapple.

6. Can I make this dairy-free?

Substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use almond or oat milk in place of whole milk.

Get Ready to Impress with a Brunch Classic!

This Easy Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast recipe is your ticket to a delicious and memorable brunch. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that guarantees smiles all around. So, gather your ingredients, prep your baking dish, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a morning of indulgence. Don’t forget to share the love—and the recipe!

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