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Cozy Baked French Toast Casserole with Berry Cream Cheese Filling

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A comforting baked French toast casserole layered with a luscious berry cream cheese filling, perfect for cozy weekend breakfasts or brunches. This easy recipe features custardy bread with a sweet and tangy berry center.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf sturdy brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch slices
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen, such as blueberries and raspberries)
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
  • Maple syrup for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Berry Cream Cheese Filling: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mix until fluffy. Gently fold in mixed berries and set aside.
  2. Assemble the Bread Layer: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange half of the bread slices evenly on the bottom. Spread dollops of the berry cream cheese filling over the bread, then top with remaining bread slices to create layers.
  3. Make the Custard: Whisk together eggs, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly frothy.
  4. Pour Custard Over Bread: Slowly pour custard evenly over the layered bread and cream cheese filling. Press down gently to help bread soak custard. Let sit for 10 minutes or cover and refrigerate overnight for best texture.
  5. Bake the Casserole: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes until custard is set and top is golden brown. Check doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.
  6. Cool and Serve: Let cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup.

Notes

For best texture, let the casserole soak in the custard overnight in the refrigerator. If the top browns too quickly during baking, loosely cover with foil halfway through. Use brioche or challah bread for sturdy slices that soak custard well. Frozen berries can be used but thaw and drain excess liquid before folding in. Dairy-free and gluten-free substitutions are possible by swapping milk and bread accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked French toast casserole, berry cream cheese filling, brunch recipe, easy breakfast, cozy breakfast, custardy French toast, brioche casserole

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/cozy-baked-french-toast-casserole-with-berry-cream-cheese-filling-recipe/