Berry French Toast Bake (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Casserole Base

01 - Dry French bread, cubed (approximately to fill 3/4 of a 9x13 inch casserole dish)
02 - 8 large eggs
03 - 2 cups 2% milk (or almond milk/oat milk for dairy-free option)
04 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
05 - 2 teaspoons cinnamon powder
06 - 1/3 cup brown sugar

→ Topping

07 - 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries, sliced
08 - 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
09 - Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
10 - Maple syrup for serving (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with butter or oil. Place cubed dry French bread into the dish, filling about 3/4 of its capacity.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon powder, and brown sugar until well combined.
03 - Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Add sliced strawberries and blueberries on top.
04 - Cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the bread to soak.
05 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 35-50 minutes, checking for doneness at the 35-minute mark. Bake longer if necessary.
06 - Sprinkle powdered sugar over the casserole if desired, drizzle with maple syrup, and serve warm. Pair with bacon slices for a hearty brunch.

# Notes:

01 - Use slightly stale or dry bread for the best consistency, as it absorbs the egg mixture more effectively.
02 - Cooking times may vary depending on bread dryness and oven performance. Start checking at 35 minutes and extend as needed.
03 - This casserole is ideal for holidays or feeding a large group. Preparing it the night before makes for a stress-free breakfast.