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Easy Creamy Strawberry Shortcake French Toast Bake

strawberry shortcake french toast bake - featured image
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A nostalgic and creamy breakfast bake combining soft bread cubes soaked in a rich custard with fresh strawberries, perfect for special occasions or a comforting weekend meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups day-old brioche or challah bread cubes (about 10–12 slices)
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 8 oz softened cream cheese
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk or 2%
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cut brioche or challah into roughly 1-inch cubes. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and toast lightly in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes to dry out slightly.
  2. In a medium bowl, toss sliced strawberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar and let sit to macerate.
  3. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. Slowly whisk in milk, heavy cream, vanilla, cinnamon, and remaining sugar until fully combined and smooth.
  5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter. Layer half the toasted bread cubes evenly, then spread half the macerated strawberries (including juices) over the bread.
  6. Pour half the custard mixture over the strawberries and bread. Repeat layering with remaining bread, strawberries, and custard.
  7. Press down lightly to ensure bread absorbs custard evenly. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove plastic wrap and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until custard is set and top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
  9. Let cool for 10 minutes before dusting with powdered sugar and serving.

Notes

Use day-old bread or lightly toast fresh bread to prevent sogginess. Refrigerate the assembled bake overnight for best custard absorption. Tent with foil if top browns too quickly. Gluten-free and dairy-free substitutions are possible.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry shortcake, french toast bake, creamy breakfast, easy brunch recipe, strawberry dessert, custard bake

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/easy-creamy-strawberry-shortcake-french-toast-bake-recipe-for-perfect-breakfast/