Berry Bliss French Toast Casserole

Welcome to another delightful breakfast recipe! Today, we’re diving into a luscious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for weekend brunch or a special family breakfast: Berry Bliss French Toast Casserole. This casserole combines the creamy richness of a cheesecake with the comforting flavors of French toast, topped with a burst of fresh berries. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the French Toast Casserole:

• 1 16-ounce loaf bread, sliced into 16 slices
• 7 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup half-and-half
• Powdered sugar (for garnish)

For the Filling:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup + 1/2 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup blackberries
• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 1/2 cup raspberries

Directions

Preparing the Casserole:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9-inch rectangular pan.
2. Layer Bread: Place 8 bread slices in one even layer at the bottom of the pan.

Making the Filling:

3. Cream Cheese Mixture: In a stand mixer, beat the cream cheese with a paddle attachment until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add 1/4 cup sugar, egg, and 1 1/2 tablespoons vanilla extract. Beat until blended.
4. Spread Filling: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bread slices in the pan.
5. Berry Layer: In a medium bowl, toss blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries with 1/2 tablespoon sugar. Distribute evenly over the cream cheese layer.
6. Top with Bread: Top with the remaining 8 slices of bread. Press down gently.

Making the Egg Mixture:

7. Whisk Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 7 eggs, ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and salt. Add milk and half-and-half; mix well.
8. Pour Mixture: Pour the egg mixture over the bread, pressing down with the back of a spoon to ensure absorption.

Baking:

9. Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until set and cooked through.
10. Cool and Serve: Allow to cool for 10-20 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 80 minutes
• Calories: 350 kcal per serving
• Servings: 8

Enjoy this Berry Bliss French Toast Casserole with a cup of coffee or tea for a truly blissful morning experience. The combination of creamy filling, fresh berries, and fluffy bread will make it a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!