Spring Brunch French Toast Bake

Name: Spring Brunch French Toast Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf brioche bread, cubed; 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1/3 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 1/2 cup granola or crushed cereal

Highlighted under: Seasonal Table Delights

I absolutely love hosting brunches, and this Spring Brunch French Toast Bake is always a hit. It's the perfect combination of sweet and savory, with layers of custard-soaked bread, fresh berries, and a hint of vanilla. I adore how easy it is to prepare the night before, allowing me to enjoy time with my guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Plus, the layer of crunchy topping adds a delightful texture that everyone raves about. Trust me, this dish will become a staple at your brunch gatherings!

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-02-24T02:49:36.692Z

When I first made this Spring Brunch French Toast Bake, I was amazed by how simple yet impressive it turned out. The blend of egg custard and brioche was a revelation, yielding a perfectly baked dish that had everyone going back for seconds. I use fresh seasonal berries, which not only add vibrant color but also a juicy burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the warm toast.

To make this recipe even easier, I prepare it the night before and let it soak in the refrigerator. This method ensures that every bite is ultra-rich and soft. Plus, baking it just before serving creates an irresistible aroma that sets the mood for any brunch gathering. Give it a try; you won’t regret it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful mix of flavors with seasonal berries
Soft and custardy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for preparing in advance for stress-free entertaining

Ingredient Insights

Choosing the right bread is crucial for a successful French toast bake. Brioche is ideal due to its rich, buttery flavor and soft texture, which absorbs the custard mixture beautifully. If you can't find brioche, challah is a great substitute that offers a similar texture and taste. Avoid using overly dense breads, as they may not soak up the custard properly, resulting in a less creamy final dish.

The fresh berries in this recipe not only add vibrant color but also a burst of flavor. Using a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provides sweet and tart elements, enhancing the overall taste. If you're looking for alternatives, consider using seasonal fruits like blackberries or peaches, which can be mixed with a bit of lemon juice to brighten them up. Just be cautious about the moisture they might add, which could affect the custard consistency.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing this French toast bake the night before is a game changer for brunch hosts. By allowing the bread to soak in the custard mixture overnight, the flavors meld beautifully and the bread absorbs just the right amount of liquid, leading to a moist texture once baked. If you choose to refrigerate it for longer than 4 hours, consider adding a few extra minutes to your baking time to ensure it cooks through.

If you're seeking to customize your brunch experience, try freezing individual portions of the casserole. After baking and cooling, cut the bake into squares and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. To reheat, simply pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 loaf brioche bread, cubed
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Topping

1/3 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup granola or crushed cereal

Instructions

Instructions

How to Make It

Prepare the Bread

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cubed brioche and gently fold until soaked. Stir in the mixed berries and nuts, if using.

Bake the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Combine the brown sugar, melted butter, and granola. Sprinkle the topping over the bread mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Cook

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until set and golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add a teaspoon of orange zest to the egg mixture! You can also swap out the berries for apples or peaches, depending on what's in season.

Serving Suggestions

This French toast bake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your presentation by serving it with a drizzle of warm maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness. Fresh mint leaves can also provide a beautiful contrast that enhances both flavor and visual appeal. Pair it with a light fruit salad for a balanced brunch spread.

For a touch of indulgence, consider adding whipped cream or a dollop of yogurt on the side. These creamy elements can complement the dish's texture and provide a cooling effect, especially with the warm bread and baked berries. Experimenting with flavored syrups, like vanilla or berry-infused varieties, can further enhance the flavor profile.

Troubleshooting Tips

If after baking you find that your French toast bake is too dry, it likely means it wasn’t soaked long enough in the custard mixture. In the future, ensure to allow adequate time for the bread to absorb the liquids—this is key for achieving the desired custardy texture. If anything, you might consider increasing the milk or cream slightly to accommodate for drier bread.

Conversely, if your bake turns out too soggy, it may have been over-soaked. Be careful to only leave it soaking for the recommended time, and ensure not to use too many juicy fruits. If your mixture appears overly liquidy upon transfer to the baking dish, add a few extra breadcrumbs or some additional granola to help absorb the excess moisture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this French toast bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! It's perfect for making the night before and refrigerating overnight.

→ What type of bread is best to use?

Brioche works wonderfully for its rich texture, but you can also use challah or even a good sourdough.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze portions of the bake after it has cooled. Just reheat in the oven when you're ready to enjoy it.

→ What can I serve with it?

It pairs beautifully with maple syrup, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar!