Spring Brunch French Toast Bake

Name: Spring Brunch French Toast Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 slices of day-old brioche or challah bread; 6 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); Powdered sugar for serving

Highlighted under: Cakes & Oven Treats

I love discovering new ways to elevate my brunch game, and this Spring Brunch French Toast Bake is a delightful addition to my recipe collection. It combines tender bread with a rich custard, all topped off with fresh fruit and a hint of vanilla. This dish not only offers a burst of seasonal flavors but also simplifies brunch prep, allowing me to savor the morning with friends and family. Truly, it's a showstopper that looks beautiful and tastes even better!

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:25:37.469Z

When I first made this French toast bake, I was taken aback by how easy it was to prepare. Layering the bread in a dish and pouring over the custard allowed flavors to meld beautifully overnight, which is key for bringing out that rich taste. The surprise was how versatile it is; by swapping out fruits or adding nuts, I can create unique variations every time I serve it.

This recipe works wonders if you let it sit before baking. I love to prep it the night before, so that in the morning, all I need to do is pop it in the oven while I brew coffee. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a leisurely weekend without spending hours in the kitchen, and it feels so rewarding to serve it fresh from the oven.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Burst of fresh flavors from seasonal fruits
Perfect make-ahead dish for effortless entertaining

Mastering the Custard

The custard is the heart of this French toast bake, providing a rich and creamy texture that binds the ingredients together. When whisking together the eggs, milk, and cream, be sure to incorporate air into the mixture for a fluffier result. Look for a consistency that is smooth and glossy, without any lumps, which is crucial for uniform soaking of the bread.

A great tip is to let the custard sit for a few minutes after mixing to allow the flavors to meld. The sugar should dissolve completely during this time, enhancing the overall taste. If you're looking to reduce sugar, consider substituting with maple syrup or agave, adjusting the quantity based on your preferred sweetness. Just remember, the sweetener should complement the custard without overpowering it.

Optimizing Fruit Selection

Using a variety of berries not only adds color but also complexity to the flavor profile of your bake. Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries each offer distinct tastes—balance the tartness of raspberries with the sweetness of strawberries for a harmonious bite. If fresh berries are not available, you can use frozen ones, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture that could affect the custard absorption.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a layer of your favorite fruit preserves or a sprinkle of citrus zest among the bread layers. This can enhance the fruitiness of the bake and provide a surprise flavor burst with each bite.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delightful Spring Brunch French Toast Bake:

For the Bake

8 slices of day-old brioche or challah bread
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Powdered sugar for serving

With these ingredients, your French toast bake will come together beautifully!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Spring Brunch French Toast Bake:

Prepare the Bread

Cut the brioche or challah bread into thick slices and arrange them in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Assemble the Bake

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring they are well soaked. Press down gently to ensure absorption.

Add the Berries

Sprinkle the mixed berries over the top of the bread. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dish for 40 minutes, or until golden brown and a knife inserted comes out clean.

Serve

Allow to cool for a few minutes before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of orange or almond extract to the custard mixture. Fresh herbs like mint can also make a delightful garnish.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of this Spring Brunch French Toast Bake is its make-ahead potential. After assembling the dish, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator overnight. This not only allows the flavors to develop but also ensures that your bread is thoroughly soaked before baking, resulting in a more tender texture.

If you need to prepare it further in advance, consider freezing the unbaked dish. Wrap it well in foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to bake, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking as directed. This makes it an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or weekend brunches.

Serving Suggestions

For a lovely presentation, serve the baked French toast with a side of warm maple syrup, whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey. Garnishing with additional fresh berries or a sprig of mint can elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, making it a showstopper for your brunch table. It's a dish that invites creativity, so don't hold back on adding your favorite toppings.

Pair this bake with a light, refreshing beverage such as a citrus-mint iced tea or a classic mimosa to complement the seasonal flavors of the dish. If you want to create a stunning brunch spread, consider including a savory option like a frittata or a light salad to balance the sweetness of the French toast bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the milk and cream with almond milk or coconut milk and use dairy-free bread.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I use frozen berries?

Absolutely! Just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess moisture before adding them to the bake.

→ Is it necessary to refrigerate overnight?

While not mandatory, refrigerating overnight allows the bread to absorb more custard and enhances the flavors.