Name: Strawberry French Toast Casserole: The Perfect Morning Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 slices home-style white bread; cut into 1-inch cubes; divided; 2 (8 ounce) packages cold cream cheese; cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 ½ cups sliced fresh strawberries; 2 cups half-and-half; 12 large eggs; ⅓ cup pure maple syrup; Sauce: 1 cup white sugar; 1 cup water; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries; 1 tablespoon butter

Indulging in a warm, comforting dish like a Strawberry French Toast Casserole is the perfect way to elevate your breakfast or brunch experience. This delightful casserole combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with soft, fluffy bread, creating a mouthwatering treat that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or just a cozy family gathering, this vibrant dish is both visually stunning and incredibly satisfying.

Moreover, the simplicity of a baked strawberry-infused French toast casserole makes it an ideal choice for busy mornings. With minimal prep time, you can set it in the oven and let the delicious aroma fill your home. As you serve this delectable breakfast casserole, watch as eyes light up and smiles bloom, proving that joy truly begins with good food.

Why You’ll Love This Casserole:

If you’re searching for a delightful dish to brighten your breakfast experience, look no further than Strawberry French Toast Casserole. This dish combines the sweetness of strawberries with the comforting texture of French toast, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Imagine waking up to the aroma of vanilla custard and fresh strawberries baking in your oven—what a treat!

Not only is this casserole delicious, but it also plays well into make-ahead recipes. Similar to an overnight breakfast casserole, you can prepare it in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones in the morning. Plus, the vibrant color of strawberries adds a beautiful touch to your table, making it perfect for brunches and special occasions.

If you’re looking for more delicious strawberry-inspired recipes, check out this Strawberry Spinach Salad, which offers a refreshing twist to complement your breakfast spread. Embrace the joy of breakfast with this Strawberry French Toast Casserole, guaranteed to create lasting memories at your table!

Ingredients for Strawberry French Toast Casserole:

To create a delightful Strawberry French Toast Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

12 slices home-style white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes, divided
2 (8-ounce) packages cold cream cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 ½ cups sliced fresh strawberries
2 cups half-and-half
12 large eggs
⅓ cup pure maple syrup

For the sauce to elevate the dish’s flavor, you will need:

1 cup white sugar
1 cup water
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
1 tablespoon butter

This casserole is perfect for breakfast gatherings. Also, consider pairing it with a refreshing Strawberry Spinach Salad for a complete meal experience. Enjoy a delightful start to your day with this sweet and creamy dish that highlights delicious strawberries.

How to Prepare Strawberry French Toast Casserole:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the 12 slices of home-style white bread and cubed cream cheese, gently mixing them with the 1.5 cups of fresh strawberries. Layer this mixture into a greased baking dish. In another bowl, whisk the 12 large eggs with the 2 cups of half-and-half and ⅓ cup of pure maple syrup until smooth. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the bread and berry layers, allowing it to soak through for at least 30 minutes. For the strawberry sauce, combine 1 cup of white sugar, 1 cup of water, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch in a saucepan. Heat over medium until it thickens, then stir in 1 cup of sliced strawberries and 1 tablespoon of butter. Bake the casserole for about 45 minutes, then serve it warm, drizzled with the homemade strawberry sauce. For another delightful breakfast option, check out this overnight breakfast casserole, which features similar comforting flavors.

For a broader range of strawberry-inspired dishes, don’t miss the Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry French Toast Casserole:

To elevate your Strawberry French Toast Casserole experience, serve it with a drizzle of warm maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar. Fresh berries on the side add a vibrant touch, making your breakfast visually appealing. A dollop of whipped cream enhances its indulgent nature and provides a creamy contrast to the tender bread. For an extra flavor boost, consider pairing it with a refreshing Strawberry Lemonade Slushie. This icy drink complements the sweetness of the casserole beautifully, creating a memorable brunch. You can also include a side of crispy bacon or sausages for a savory balance to the meal. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy weekend, these serving suggestions enhance the enjoyment of your delicious strawberry-infused casserole. Delight your guests with this perfect combination!

Variations and Customizations:

There are numerous ways to customize your Strawberry French Toast Casserole to suit your taste. First, try different fruits! Blueberries, raspberries, or even banana slices can add delightful twists. For a richer flavor, swirl in cream cheese or use flavored bread like cinnamon-raisin. Additionally, you can enhance the sweetness with maple syrup, honey, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving.

If you prefer a healthier version, consider using whole grain bread or omitting the sugar altogether. Adding a hint of vanilla extract or almond extract can elevate the flavor profile beautifully. You might also enjoy this dish with a splash of citrus zest, like lemon or orange, which brightens up the flavors.

To complement your Strawberry French Toast Casserole, pair it with a fresh side like a strawberry spinach salad for added nutrition and a burst of freshness. Each of these variations turns this classic breakfast into something truly special!

Storage Tips for Strawberry French Toast Casserole:

To preserve the deliciousness of your Strawberry French Toast Casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven or microwave. For a refreshing breakfast idea, try pairing it with a strawberry oatmeal breakfast smoothie.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What ingredients do I need for Strawberry French Toast Casserole?

To prepare a delicious Strawberry French Toast Casserole, gather ingredients like fresh strawberries, eggs, milk, bread, sugar, and vanilla extract. The combination creates a sweet and custardy treat, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

How long should I bake it?

Typically, you should bake your strawberry casserole for about 45-50 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the bread absorbs the custard mixture and turns golden brown on top.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the Strawberry French Toast Casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. This lets the flavors meld beautifully, ensuring a delightful breakfast ready for baking the next morning.

What toppings go well with it?

Consider serving your casserole with whipped cream, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce would also enhance the presentation and flavor.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it securely. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick breakfast option later.

How can I pair it for brunch?

Serving the casserole alongside a refreshing beverage like a Strawberry Lemonade Slushie can uplift the entire meal experience. The cooling drink complements the warm, sweet flavors wonderfully.

For more strawberry inspirations, check out Strawberry Oatmeal Breakfast Smoothie which adds a nutritious twist to your morning routine.

Strawberry French Toast Casserole: The Perfect Morning Delight

Total Time: 50
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in a delightful Strawberry French Toast Casserole, a sweet and creamy breakfast bake that combines the flavors of fluffy bread and fresh strawberries, perfect for special occasions or a cozy brunch.

Ingredients

Scale

12 slices home-style white bread

cut into 1-inch cubes

divided

2 (8 ounce) packages cold cream cheese

cut into 1-inch cubes

1 ½ cups sliced fresh strawberries

2 cups half-and-half

12 large eggs

⅓ cup pure maple syrup

Sauce: 1 cup white sugar

1 cup water

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 cup sliced fresh strawberries

1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes and cold cream cheese cubes.
Add sliced fresh strawberries and toss gently to mix.
In another bowl, whisk together the half-and-half, eggs, and maple syrup until well combined.
Pour the egg mixture over the bread and strawberries, pressing down to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid.
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and puffed.
While the casserole is baking, prepare the sauce by combining sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until dissolved.
Mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir into the sugar mixture, cooking until thickened.
Add sliced strawberries and butter to the sauce, stirring gently until heated through.
Serve the baked casserole warm, drizzled with the strawberry sauce.