Name: Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Delight for Breakfast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 4 cups bread cubes (Use a sturdy bread like challah or brioche for the best texture.); 6 large eggs (Fresh eggs are key for a fluffy custard base.); 1 cup heavy cream (Provides a rich, creamy flavor that enhances the indulgence.); 1 cup milk (You can substitute with almond milk for a lighter version.); ½ cup granulated sugar (Adjust sugar based on your sweetness preference.); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (Adds a lovely aroma and depth of flavor.); 1 teaspoon cinnamon (Gives a warm, spicy note that complements the strawberries.); 2 cups strawberries, sliced (Fresh strawberries add a juicy sweetness.)

There’s something magical about waking up to the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon and strawberries wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? When I first discovered Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast, it instantly became a beloved addition to my brunch repertoire. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional French toast, combining sweet, juicy strawberries with creamy goodness, all cradled by soft, buttery bread. It’s perfect for those lazy weekend mornings when you want to impress family or friends without the stress of a gourmet kitchen. Not only can you prepare it ahead of time, but it comes together in just 15 minutes of hands-on work, letting the oven do the rest. Ready to elevate your brunch game and wrap your taste buds in pure indulgence? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!

Why Is This French Toast a Must-Try?

Decadent Flavor: The blend of strawberries and cream creates a sweet, indulgent taste that transforms ordinary breakfast into a gourmet experience.

Effortless Prep: With just 15 minutes of hands-on work, you can have this dish assembled and chilling in the fridge, allowing you to spend more time with your guests.

Versatile Serving: Serve it warm out of the oven, dusted with powdered sugar or topped with extra strawberries for a sophisticated touch that appeals to everyone.

Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it's a casual family brunch or a festive gathering, this Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast will impress and satisfy.

Easy to Customize: Love experimenting? Try swapping out the strawberries for your favorite fruit or adding a splash of orange zest to the egg mixture for a zesty twist!

Make your brunch unforgettable with this delightful dish. Check out more fantastic brunch recipes for inspiration!

Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Ingredients

For the French Toast
• 4 cups bread cubes – Use a sturdy bread like challah or brioche for the best texture.
• 6 large eggs – Fresh eggs are key for a fluffy custard base.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Provides a rich, creamy flavor that enhances the indulgence.
• 1 cup milk – You can substitute with almond milk for a lighter version.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – Adjust sugar based on your sweetness preference.

For Flavoring
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – Adds a lovely aroma and depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Gives a warm, spicy note that complements the strawberries.

For the Topping
• 2 cups strawberries, sliced – Fresh strawberries add a juicy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the creamy custard.

Elevate your breakfast experience with this scrumptious Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast cooks evenly, resulting in a warm, golden brown finish. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients so everything is within reach, making the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Step 2: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Keep whisking until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy, about 2-3 minutes. This custard will soak into the bread cubes and create a rich, creamy texture. Set aside once mixed for adding to the bread.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking, ensuring your Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast slides out effortlessly once baked. Then, evenly distribute the bread cubes into the dish, creating a sturdy base. This mixture of luscious bread will absorb all the custard flavors beautifully, so spread it evenly for the best results.

Step 4: Add the Strawberries
Sprinkle the sliced strawberries evenly over the bread cubes. Make sure to distribute the strawberries well, as their juicy sweetness will infuse into the custard, creating bursts of flavor throughout your Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast. The strawberries also add a lovely pop of color that enhances the dish's presentation.

Step 5: Combine Bread and Custard
Now, pour the custard mixture over the bread and strawberries, ensuring that all pieces of bread are generously soaked. Use a spatula to gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the mixture. This soaking step is essential to achieve that indulgent, custardy texture once baked.

Step 6: Refrigerate the Dish
Cover your baking dish tightly with foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if you prefer. This allows the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the custard fully, making your Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast irresistibly soft and flavorful.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
After chilling, remove the foil and place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. For the last 10 minutes, allow the top to brown by keeping it uncovered. The delightful aroma of cinnamon and strawberries will fill your kitchen!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, serve warm, garnished with additional strawberries or a drizzle of cream if desired. This Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast is perfect for sharing at your next brunch, and it's sure to impress everyone seated at your table.

How to Store and Freeze Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast

Room Temperature: Enjoy leftovers within 2 hours after baking, keeping them covered to maintain freshness.

Fridge: Store any leftover Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months, perfect for busy mornings.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes for the best texture.

Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Variations

Elevate your Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast with these exciting twists that will surprise your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream and milk for coconut milk or almond milk to create a light, dairy-free version. The coconut will add a hint of tropical flavor!
Nutty Texture: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft bread and strawberries. These nuts will infuse delightful earthiness into every bite.
Spiced Up: Increase the cinnamon or add a dash of nutmeg for a spicy kick that'll warm you from the inside out. These subtle changes make each mouthful twinkle with flavor.
Exotic Fruits: Replace strawberries with your favorite seasonal fruits like peaches, blueberries, or even mango for a refreshing twist. The vibrant hues will not only delight the eye but also create a scrumptious medley of tastes.
Zesty Citrus: Incorporate a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest into the egg mixture for a bright, zesty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries. It’s a burst of sunshine on your plate!
Sweet Toppings: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup before baking to enhance the sweetness of your French toast. The caramelization that occurs during baking makes each bite even more indulgent.
Banana Nut: Layer in some banana slices with the strawberries for a classic combination that’s always a hit. This not only adds natural sweetness but also complements the creamy texture beautifully.
Savor the Spice: For those who enjoy a little heat, experiment by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the egg mix. This daring twist will create an unforgettable flavor explosion!

Customize your dish to suit your palate and make your brunch gatherings memorable. For more delicious ideas, explore our collection of easy brunch recipes and indulgent French toast recipes.

Expert Tips for Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast

Choosing the Right Bread: Use dense bread like challah or brioche to ensure it holds up well to soaking and bakes perfectly.

Soak Time Matters: Allow the bread to soak in the custard for at least 30 minutes, or overnight, to achieve a rich and custardy texture in your Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast.

Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the baking time and uncover the dish for the last 10 minutes to get that beautiful golden-brown top, avoiding a soggy finish.

Customize Your Fruit: Feel free to swap in seasonal fruits like blueberries or peaches for a fresh twist, maintaining that delightful flavor balance.

Perfect Serving Temperature: Serve this dish warm, as it enhances the creamy textures and the sweetness of the strawberries, ensuring your breakfast is truly indulgent.

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance by following the first five steps in the recipe, then cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. This not only allows the flavors to meld beautifully but also ensures the bread absorbs the custard mixture for a superior taste. To maintain quality, avoid baking it until you’re ready to serve, ensuring it's fresh and warm for your guests. When you’re ready to enjoy this decadent breakfast, simply preheat your oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, removing the foil for the final 10 minutes to achieve that golden brown top!

What to Serve with Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast

There’s nothing quite like creating a memorable brunch experience to delight your loved ones and elevate your meals.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery flavor of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the sweet and fruity notes of the French toast, creating a delightful contrast.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits brings a burst of color and contrasts wonderfully with the richness of the dish. It’s like a garden party on your plate!
Bacon Strips: The crispy, salty goodness of bacon balances perfectly with the sweetness of the French toast, creating a savory-sweet harmony that’s utterly irresistible.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Adding a drizzle of warm maple syrup enhances the flavors and adds a touch of sweetness that complements the strawberries beautifully.
Whipped Cream Topping: Enhance each serving with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, elevating this dish to a luxurious morning treat. The lightness of the cream perfectly offsets the baked custard texture.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a refreshing drink option, serve sparkling water with a slice of lemon. Its crispness cleanses the palate and refreshes between bites.
Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee or a shot of espresso provides a bold counterpoint to the sweetness of the French toast, perfect for the caffeine lovers at your table.

Embrace the joy of brunch by complementing this delightful dish with these scrumptious sides and beverages!

Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe strawberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are vibrant red, firm, and fragrant. Avoid any with green or white patches and those that have dark spots all over, as they may be overripe. The best strawberries will add that delightful sweetness and juiciness to your Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast!

How should I store leftovers of Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast?
Store any leftover Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving to restore some of its original warmth and creamy texture.

Can I freeze Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through.

What if the custard mixture is too runny?
If you find your custard mixture is too runny, you might want to add another egg to help thicken it up, or reduce the liquid slightly. Additionally, ensure you’re using high-quality bread that will absorb the custard well without getting overly soggy. Letting the mixture soak longer will help with the consistency too!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you're cooking for someone with lactose intolerance, you can easily swap heavy cream and milk for almond or oat milk, which will still give your dish a creamy texture without the dairy. Always check with your guests about allergies to ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast.

What type of bread works best for Baked Strawberries and Cream French Toast?
I recommend using a sturdier bread like challah or brioche, as they hold up well when soaked in the custard. These breads create a rich and fluffy texture that enhances the overall experience. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread, which will achieve a similar result. Enjoy experimenting with different breads for a unique twist on this classic dish!