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Easy Overnight French Toast Bake with Strawberries

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A simple and comforting overnight French toast bake featuring custardy bread and fresh strawberries, perfect for an easy breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf of sturdy bread (about 1012 slices; brioche or challah preferred)
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk or almond milk for dairy-free option
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups (about 300 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
  • Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup or honey, chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Cut bread into roughly 1-inch cubes and spread evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Toast fresh bread cubes lightly for 5 minutes at 350°F if desired.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth but not frothy.
  3. Scatter halved strawberries evenly over the bread cubes.
  4. Pour custard mixture slowly over bread and strawberries, pressing gently to help soak the bread without stirring.
  5. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or lid and refrigerate overnight or at least 6 hours.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until top is golden and a knife inserted comes out clean.
  7. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle maple syrup if desired.

Notes

Use day-old bread to prevent sogginess. The overnight soak is essential for custard absorption and texture. Room temperature eggs and milk help prevent curdling. Tent with foil if top browns too quickly. Frozen strawberries can be used if thawed and drained. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and egg replacer.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight French toast bake, strawberry French toast, easy breakfast casserole, brunch recipe, custard soaked bread