Spring Brunch French Toast Bake

Name: Spring Brunch French Toast Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf challah or brioche bread, cut into cubes; 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries); Powdered sugar, for serving

Highlighted under: Holiday Kitchen Stories

I absolutely love preparing this Spring Brunch French Toast Bake for my family on special weekends. It's the perfect dish that combines the comforting flavors of French toast with the freshness of spring ingredients. As it bakes, the aroma fills the kitchen, making everyone eager to gather around the table. I adore how easily it comes together. With just a bit of prep work the night before, I can enjoy a relaxed morning while still serving a delicious brunch that feels fancy and indulgent.

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:17:37.230Z

When I first made this Spring Brunch French Toast Bake, I wanted something that would impress my guests without requiring hours in the kitchen. I discovered that letting the bread soak overnight allowed it to absorb all the delicious flavors, making each bite taste divine. The balance of sweetness from the maple syrup and the tartness from the fresh berries is simply irresistible.

One essential tip I learned is to use a good quality bread, like challah or brioche, for the best texture. This soak and bake method ensures that the edges get crispy while the center remains soft and custardy. It’s a breakfast dish that truly elevates any brunch gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delightful mix of crunchy and soft textures
Can be prepared a day in advance for effortless serving
Bursting with fresh seasonal flavors

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Spring Brunch French Toast Bake plays a vital role in creating its unique flavor and texture. The challah or brioche provides a rich and tender base, soaking up the custard mixture beautifully. Aim for bread that is slightly stale, as it will absorb the liquid better and prevent it from becoming mushy. This not only enhances the texture but allows for even baking, resulting in a delightful contrast of creamy and crunchy layers.

Using a mix of eggs, milk, and heavy cream delivers a rich, custardy filling that defines traditional French toast. The heavy cream adds a silky richness, while the eggs provide structure. Be sure to whisk these ingredients thoroughly together; this ensures even distribution of flavors and prevents the eggs from curdling during baking. For a lighter version, you could substitute some heavy cream with more milk, but keep in mind that the overall creaminess will be slightly reduced.

Baking Tips for Perfection

When preparing the French toast bake, pay close attention to the soaking time. Refrigerating the mixture overnight allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, resulting in a deeply flavorful bake. If you're short on time, aim for at least 4 hours of soaking, but overnight is ideal. Just ensure you mix the bread gently to avoid breaking the cubes too much; a light toss with your hands or a spatula works well.

For even baking, try to arrange the bread evenly in the dish, ensuring that the pieces are well-coated but not overcrowded. If the top hasn’t browned enough after 45 minutes, consider turning on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes for that perfect golden finish. Just be sure to watch closely, as it can go from perfectly caramelized to burnt quickly.

Ingredients

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

For the French Toast Bake

1 loaf challah or brioche bread, cut into cubes
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
Powdered sugar, for serving

Make sure to have these ingredients on hand for a delightful brunch experience!

Instructions

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

Prepare the Bread

In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk until fully blended. Add the cubed bread to the mixture and gently fold to ensure all pieces are coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.

Bake the Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish and transfer the soaked bread mixture into it. Spread the fresh berries on top. Bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow it to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm with additional maple syrup and your favorite toppings!

Your Spring Brunch French Toast Bake is ready to impress!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, try sprinkling your favorite granola on top just before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the beauty aspects of this French toast bake is its make-ahead capability. Prepare the custard-soaked bread the night before and let it sit in the fridge, covered. This not only enhances the flavors but also means less fuss in the morning. Simply pop it in the oven when you wake up for a delicious brunch without the early-morning scramble.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or for a crispy texture, place them in a toaster oven for a few minutes. If you find yourself with leftovers frequently, you can also freeze the baked dish. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil; it will keep well for up to a month.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate this French toast bake further, serve it with a drizzle of warm maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh seasonal fruits like berries not only add a pop of brightness but also complement the rich custard perfectly. A sprinkle of chopped nuts on top right before serving can introduce an extra layer of texture, adding crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the dish.

Experiment with flavor variations by swapping out the berries for other fruits like sliced peaches or even chocolate chips for a sweeter twist. You can also infuse the custard with citrus zest for a refreshing zing or add a splash of orange liqueur for an adult version. The versatility of this dish makes it a canvas for creativity!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! You can use any thick, soft bread like sourdough or even gluten-free bread.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the French toast bake?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just ensure it’s securely wrapped and bake directly from the freezer with a little extra time.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

I love serving it with whipped cream, additional fresh berries, and a drizzle of maple syrup!