Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast
Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast is a delightful brunch treat that combines fluffy bread soaked in a rich custard, topped with juicy strawberries. This dish is the perfect mix of sweetness and creaminess, making it a favorite for family gatherings, special occasions, or a comforting weekend breakfast.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast
This baked French toast recipe is incredibly simple and quick to prepare. It’s versatile, allowing you to serve it fresh out of the oven or make it ahead of time and bake when you’re ready. The combination of strawberries and cream is simply irresistible, providing a burst of flavor that will delight your taste buds. Plus, your kitchen will smell amazing while it bakes!
How to Make Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast
Ingredients:
- Fresh strawberries
- Eggs
- Milk
- Heavy cream
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon
- Sugar
- Bread (croissants or brioche works best)
- Butter
- Powdered sugar (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Slice the bread into thick pieces and arrange them in the baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Add the fresh strawberries on top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Let cool slightly before serving, dust with powdered sugar, and enjoy with additional strawberries or syrup if desired.
How to Serve Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast
Serve this delicious baked French toast warm, topped with additional fresh strawberries and a light dusting of powdered sugar. For an extra treat, add a drizzle of maple syrup or a scoop of whipped cream. This dish is not only beautiful but also perfect for impressing guests at brunch.
How to Store Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast
To store leftovers, first let the dish cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions if you prefer.
Tips to Make Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Perfect
- Use day-old bread for the best texture. Staler bread absorbs the custard better, resulting in a creamier French toast.
- Feel free to substitute strawberries with other fresh fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or sliced bananas.
- If you want an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or orange zest to the custard mixture.
Flavor Variations
You can easily customize this baked French toast recipe to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas:
- For a citrus twist, add lemon or orange zest to the custard mixture.
- Incorporate spices like nutmeg or cardamom alongside the cinnamon for a warm flavor.
- Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Use flavored breads, such as cinnamon swirl or almond croissants, for a unique touch.
Pro Tips for Success
- Soak Time: For the best flavor and texture, allow the bread to soak in the custard mixture for at least 1 hour. Overnight soaking is even better.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared the night before, making it a convenient option for busy mornings.
- Oven Type: Keep an eye on your baked French toast as ovens can vary. If it browns too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil during baking.
FAQs About Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be mindful that they may release more moisture during baking. Thaw and drain them well before using to prevent the custard from becoming too watery.
What bread should I use for this recipe?
Croissants or brioche work best due to their soft texture and ability to soak up the custard. However, you can also use challah or thick slices of sourdough.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, to make a vegan version, substitute eggs with a mixture of flaxseed meal and water or silken tofu. Use non-dairy milk and cream alternatives, and sugar can be replaced with maple syrup or another sweetener.
Final Thoughts
Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast is a delightful treat that combines ease with impressive flavors. It’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual breakfast to a festive brunch. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that not only tastes incredible but also brings a smile to everyone’s face. Enjoy this recipe with friends and family, and watch it become a cherished favorite!
Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast
Ingredients
For the French Toast
- 8 slices Bread (croissants or brioche works best) Day-old bread is preferred for better texture.
- 4 large Eggs
- 1 cup Milk You can use non-dairy milk for a vegan version.
- 1/2 cup Heavy cream Non-dairy cream alternative can be used.
- 1 tbsp Vanilla extract
- 1 tsp Cinnamon Can be substituted with nutmeg or cardamom.
- 1/2 cup Sugar Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for a vegan option.
- 2 cups Fresh strawberries Frozen strawberries can be used but must be thawed and drained.
- 2 tbsp Butter For greasing the baking dish.
- Powdered sugar to taste Powdered sugar (for serving)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.
- Slice the bread into thick pieces and arrange them in the baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Add the fresh strawberries on top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Let cool slightly before serving, dust with powdered sugar, and enjoy with additional strawberries or syrup if desired.