Indulge in the delightful flavors of breakfast with our Baked Cinnamon French Toast Blackberries—a dish that transforms the classic French toast into a show-stopping centerpiece perfect for any gathering! Imagine golden, fluffy bread soaked in a rich custard, baked to perfection, and bursting with the sweet-tartness of fresh blackberries. This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone flocking to the table. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a mere 40 minutes in the oven, you’ll discover how easy it is to create a breakfast masterpiece that’s sure to impress. Get ready to elevate your brunch game and create unforgettable memories with every delicious bite!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread, cubed
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- Powdered sugar (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until completely smooth and well combined.
- Cut the French bread into 1-inch cubes. If the bread is fresh, let it sit out for 10-15 minutes to slightly dry out, which helps absorb the egg mixture better.
- Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture, gently folding and pressing to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Let the bread soak for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to absorb the liquid.
- Transfer half of the soaked bread cubes into the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer. Sprinkle half of the fresh blackberries over the bread.
- Add the remaining soaked bread cubes on top, creating a second layer. Distribute the remaining blackberries evenly across the surface.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes. The dish will be puffy and slightly crisp on top.
- Before serving, dust generously with powdered sugar. Serve warm, optionally with maple syrup or additional fresh blackberries.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, use a day-old French bread. If using fresh bread, let it sit out for 10-15 minutes to dry slightly before cubing. This helps it absorb the custard without becoming overly soggy.
- Let It Soak: Don’t rush the soaking process! Allow the bread to soak in the egg mixture for at least 5-7 minutes to ensure every piece is fully coated and flavorful.
- Layering is Key: For an even distribution of flavors, layer the soaked bread and blackberries. This creates pockets of juicy berries throughout the dish, enhancing every bite.
- Check for Doneness: Baking times may vary, so keep an eye on your French toast. It’s ready when the top is golden brown and the center is set but still slightly puffy.
- Serve Warm: This dish is best served warm, dusted with powdered sugar and accompanied by maple syrup or extra blackberries for a touch of sweetness.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dish the night before. Simply assemble the bread and custard mixture, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 13g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 180mg
