Imagine waking up to the delightful aroma of warm berries and sweet almond wafting through your kitchen—it's the perfect start to any day! Our Almond Berry French Toast Casserole is not just a breakfast; it's a show-stopping dish that will impress your family and friends. With its creamy texture, a burst of fruity flavors, and a golden, crispy top, this casserole is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Whether you're hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself, this easy-to-make recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this scrumptious adventure and discover how to create a breakfast masterpiece that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Butter for greasing
- Powdered sugar for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the casserole to cook evenly and thoroughly.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent the casserole from sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 6 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Take the loaf of bread and cut it into cubes, approximately 1-inch in size. You can use any type of bread you prefer, such as brioche, challah, or a classic white bread.
- Add the cubed bread to the egg mixture, gently folding the bread into the mixture until all pieces are coated. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes to let the bread soak up the liquid.
- While the bread is soaking, wash and prepare the mixed berries. If using strawberries, hull and slice them. Leave blueberries and raspberries whole.
- After the bread has soaked, gently fold in the 1 cup of mixed berries into the bread and egg mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Make sure the berries are distributed throughout the casserole.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
- To serve, dust the top of the casserole with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Cut into squares and enjoy warm, either plain or with maple syrup.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, opt for a rich bread like brioche or challah. These types soak up the custard beautifully, resulting in a soft, fluffy casserole.
- Soak Time is Key: Allow the bread to soak in the egg mixture for at least 10 minutes. This ensures every piece is infused with flavor and prevents any dry spots.
- Berry Variations: Feel free to mix and match your berries! Try adding blackberries or even diced peaches for a unique twist that suits your taste.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. In the morning, just pop it in the oven for an effortless breakfast that’s ready to impress.
- Serving Suggestions: Dust the finished casserole with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance, or serve with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 180mg
