Spring Brunch Strawberry French Toast (Printable)

A vibrant dish combining fresh strawberries, fluffy brioche, and creamy custard, perfect for spring gatherings.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Bread & Fruit

01 - 1 loaf brioche or challah, cut into 1-inch cubes (approximately 14 ounces)
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

# Directions:

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 extract, 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 optimal flavor development and texture.
06 - Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
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 Hints:

01 -
  • Make-ahead magic: Assemble the night before and bake fresh in the morning
  • Crowd-pleaser: Feeds 8 people with minimal effort and maximum wow factor
  • Perfect texture: Crispy almond-studded top with a custardy, tender center
  • Seasonal showcase: Fresh strawberries shine in every bite
  • Beginner-friendly: Simple steps with impressive, bakery-worthy results
02 -
  • Overnight soaking is key: Letting the bread absorb the custard for at least 4 hours (or overnight) ensures the creamiest, most flavorful result
  • Use real vanilla extract: Pure vanilla makes a noticeable difference in the custard's depth and aroma
  • Don't skip the resting time: Allowing the bake to rest for 10 minutes after baking helps it set properly and makes slicing clean and easy
  • Check for doneness: The center should be just set—insert a knife in the middle; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs
  • Customize your toppings: Sliced almonds add wonderful texture, but feel free to experiment with pecans, walnuts, or go nut-free entirely
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