Spring Brunch Strawberry French Toast (Printable version)

Fluffy brioche layered with fresh strawberries and custard, topped with almonds and sugar for a spring brunch.

# Ingredient List:

→ Bread & Fruit

01 - 1 loaf brioche or challah, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 14 oz)
02 - 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

→ Custard Mixture

03 - 6 large eggs
04 - 2 cups whole milk
05 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
06 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
07 - 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
08 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
09 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Topping

10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
11 - 1/3 cup sliced almonds
12 - 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar or coarse sugar

# How-To Steps:

01 - Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
02 - Arrange half of the bread cubes in the baking dish. Scatter half of the sliced strawberries over the bread. Repeat with remaining bread and strawberries, layering them evenly.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
04 - Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and strawberries, pressing gently to help the bread absorb the liquid.
05 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
06 - Preheat the oven to 350°F.
07 - Uncover the baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter over the top, then sprinkle with sliced almonds and turbinado sugar.
08 - Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
09 - Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, optionally with maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Perfect for entertaining—prep the night before and bake in the morning
  • Combines the comfort of French toast with the ease of a casserole
  • Fresh strawberries add a bright, seasonal flavor that screams spring
  • Golden, crunchy topping with almonds and sugar creates irresistible texture
  • Feeds a crowd without the hassle of flipping individual slices
02 -
  • Use day-old brioche or challah for the best custard absorption and texture
  • Prepare the entire dish the night before and bake fresh in the morning
  • Press gently on the bread after adding custard to ensure even soaking
  • Check bread and cream labels carefully if you have specific allergen concerns
  • Let the bake rest for 10 minutes after removing from the oven for easier slicing
  • Serve with whipped cream, vanilla yogurt, or maple syrup for added richness
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