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Easy Frozen Berry Overnight French Toast Bake

frozen berry overnight French toast bake - featured image

A quick and comforting overnight French toast bake featuring frozen mixed berries and a creamy custard, perfect for an effortless breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups day-old thick-cut bread cubes (brioche, challah, or white bread)
  • 2 cups frozen mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk or 2% milk (can substitute almond or oat milk)
  • Β½ cup heavy cream (can use extra milk for lighter version)
  • Β½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for buttering the baking dish)
  • Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, chopped nuts

Instructions

  1. Cut about 6 cups (12-14 slices) of thick-cut bread into roughly 1-inch cubes. Optionally, toast cubes lightly at 350Β°F for 5-7 minutes if bread is very fresh.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups milk, Β½ cup sugar, Β½ cup heavy cream, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
  3. Lightly butter an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish. Spread half the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
  4. Sprinkle 1 cup of frozen mixed berries over the bread layer.
  5. Add the remaining bread cubes on top, then the rest of the berries.
  6. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and berries, pressing gently to help soak the bread.
  7. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
  8. Preheat oven to 350Β°F. Remove plastic wrap and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until top is golden and custard is set.
  9. Let rest 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with optional toppings like powdered sugar, maple syrup, or chopped nuts.

Notes

Use thick, sturdy bread like brioche or challah for best texture. Do not skip the overnight soak to avoid dry spots. Handle frozen berries gently to prevent breaking and watery texture. Baking time may vary by oven; start checking at 40 minutes. Butter the baking dish well to prevent sticking. For dairy-free, substitute plant-based milk and butter. Fresh berries can be used but reduce soak time to 4-6 hours to avoid sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast bake, overnight breakfast, frozen berries, easy breakfast, brunch recipe, custard bake, berry French toast