Strawberry French Toast Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced (plus more for topping)

• 8 large eggs

• 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for richer flavor)

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• Pinch of salt

• 4 oz cream cheese, cut into small cubes

• Powdered sugar & maple syrup, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare bread base: Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Layer half the bread cubes in the dish. Scatter half the strawberries and half the cream cheese cubes over top. Repeat with remaining bread, strawberries, and cream cheese.

2. Make custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Pour evenly over the bread mixture, pressing lightly so everything soaks.

3. Chill: Cover with foil and refrigerate at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor.

4. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake another 20–25 minutes, until golden and set in the center.

5. Serve: Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and top with extra fresh strawberries.