There’s something magical about waking up to the sweet aroma of a freshly baked Strawberry French Toast Casserole. This delightful dish combines the creaminess of eggs and milk with the luscious flavors of ripe strawberries, making it a perfect treat for leisurely breakfasts or weekend brunches. Moreover, it allows for a stress-free meal, as it can be prepared ahead of time and simply baked when you’re ready to indulge.
Serving as both a comforting dessert and a hearty breakfast, this strawberry-infused casserole is sure to impress family and friends alike. With each bite, you experience the perfect balance of fluffy bread and juicy fruit, all drizzled with a hint of maple syrup. So, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to add some cheer to your morning routine, this irresistible French toast bake is your go-to recipe.
What Makes This Casserole Special:
The Strawberry French Toast Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite, combining the sweetness of ripe strawberries with layers of fluffy bread soaked in a creamy custard. This crowd-pleaser is perfect for special occasions or weekend brunches, offering a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave guests asking for seconds.
What sets this casserole apart is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding ingredients like cinnamon, vanilla extract, or even a dollop of cream cheese for extra richness. Additionally, serving it with whipped cream or maple syrup elevates the dish even further. For those who enjoy a strawberry dessert as well, check out this easy strawberry shortcake delight recipe for a perfect pairing.
In summary, the Strawberry French Toast Casserole is not just a breakfast dish; it’s a sweet morning experience that brings joy to any table.
Ingredients:
Creating a delightful Strawberry French Toast Casserole requires a handful of fresh ingredients that come together perfectly. Below is the detailed list you’ll need:
- 12 slices home-style white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes, divided
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cold cream cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 ½ cups sliced fresh strawberries
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 12 large eggs
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
For the sauce that completes this scrumptious dish, gather:
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
- 1 tablespoon butter
This Strawberry French Toast Casserole is a breakfast favorite, perfect for family gatherings or leisurely weekends. For dessert lovers, consider pairing it with easy strawberry shortcake for an even sweeter experience!
How to Prepare Strawberry French Toast Casserole:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 12 large eggs, 2 cups of half-and-half, and ⅓ cup of pure maple syrup until combined. Next, place half of the 12 slices of home-style white bread cut into 1-inch cubes in a greased baking dish. Distribute half the cubes of cream cheese evenly over this layer, followed by 1 ½ cups of sliced fresh strawberries. Repeat these layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with the bread cubes on top. Pour the egg and cream mixture over the casserole and let it soak for at least 30 minutes.
While waiting, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup white sugar, 1 cup water, and 2 tablespoons cornstarch, stirring constantly until thickened. Add 1 cup sliced strawberries and 1 tablespoon of butter to finish. Bake the casserole for about 45 minutes, or until golden and set. Serve warm, drizzled with the strawberry sauce. For an extra strawberry treat, consider checking out this Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast recipe.
If you love casseroles, don’t forget to explore our delicious Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole for more tasty options!
Baking Tips for Strawberry French Toast Casserole:
Creating the perfect Strawberry French Toast Casserole requires a few essential tips to ensure that each bite bursts with flavor and is wonderfully fluffy. Firstly, when selecting your bread, opt for a day-old or slightly stale loaf. This allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture better, preventing it from becoming too soggy. A brioche or challah works wonderfully for added richness.
Next, don’t rush the soaking time. Allow the bread to sit in the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes or even overnight in the refrigerator. This enhances the flavor and texture. Additionally, topping your casserole with fresh strawberries not only adds visual appeal but also gives a lovely tartness that complements the sweetness of the dish.
If you’re looking for another delicious casserole idea, consider trying the Creamy Keto Garlic Mushroom Chicken Casserole. This recipe is not just nutritious but also offers a new flavor experience for your breakfast table. Happy baking and enjoy your delightful Strawberry French Toast Casserole!
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry French Toast Casserole:
For an unforgettable breakfast experience, consider pairing your Strawberry French Toast Casserole with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup. This sweet and fruity dish shines when served alongside a side of crispy bacon or sausages, adding a savory balance to the meal.
To elevate your dining experience, serve it with a refreshing fruit salad. Think strawberries, blueberries, and melons for a vibrant addition. Moreover, if you enjoy baked delights, try complementing your casserole with some warm, flaky, and buttery French Salted Butter Cookies. This combination guarantees a delightful morning feast, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
On cooler days, a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate makes an ideal accompaniment. Overall, the versatility of the Strawberry French Toast Casserole allows for endless creative pairings! Enjoy experimenting!
Storage Tips for Strawberry French Toast Casserole:
To keep your delightful strawberry French toast casserole fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Just wrap the casserole tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and it can last for up to a month. When serving, reheat gently in the oven for the best texture. If you’re a fan of fruity desserts, check out this easy strawberry shortcake recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Strawberry French Toast Casserole?
The Strawberry French Toast Casserole is a delightful baked dish that combines layers of bread soaked in a creamy egg mixture, fresh strawberries, and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for brunch or a sweet breakfast treat, this casserole is easy to prepare ahead of time.
Can I make Strawberry French Toast Casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day before and refrigerate it overnight. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it taste even better.
What variations can I try with this casserole?
There are many fun variations! You can substitute strawberries with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. Moreover, adding a dash of cinnamon or chocolate chips can elevate the flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Strawberry French Toast Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze Strawberry French Toast Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with this dish?
Pair the casserole with maple syrup, whipped cream, or even a scoop of ice cream for a decadent twist. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside savory dishes like scrambled eggs or bacon. Check out our other delicious recipes like the Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef for more options!
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Strawberry French Toast Casserole: Deliciously Easy to Make
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry French Toast Casserole is a deliciously decadent dish perfect for brunch or a sweet breakfast. With layers of creamy cheese and fresh strawberries, it’s an easy bake that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
12 slices home-style white bread cut into 1-inch cubes
2 (8 ounce) packages cold cream cheese cut into 1-inch cubes
1 ½ cups sliced fresh strawberries
2 cups half-and-half
12 large eggs
⅓ cup pure maple syrup
1 cup white sugar
1 cup water
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the bread cubes in the prepared dish, followed by half of the cream cheese cubes and half of the sliced strawberries.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- In a large bowl, whisk together half-and-half, eggs, and maple syrup until well blended. Pour over the layered bread mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set.
- While the casserole is baking, prepare the sauce by combining sugar, water, and cornstarch in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until thickened, then add sliced strawberries and butter. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Serve the casserole warm with the strawberry sauce drizzled on top.
Notes
For added flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the egg mixture. This casserole can be made a night in advance for a convenient breakfast option.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 460 kcal
- Sugar: 34 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 265 mg
Keywords: Strawberry French Toast Casserole, brunch recipes, breakfast casserole, strawberry recipes, baked French toast