Spring Brunch French Toast Bake

Name: Spring Brunch French Toast Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf of brioche bread, cubed; 6 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 cup fresh blueberries; Powdered sugar for serving; Maple syrup for serving

Highlighted under: Party Seasonal Food Ideas

When I think of spring gatherings, nothing excites me more than serving my Spring Brunch French Toast Bake. This dish is a delightful twist on the classic French toast, combining fresh seasonal fruits with fluffy, custardy bread. It’s perfect for leisurely brunches with family and friends, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare in advance. Each bite bursts with flavor, and the aroma of cinnamon wafting through the house is sure to entice everyone to the table. You won’t believe how simple and satisfying it can be!

Created by

Dorothy Finch

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:20:47.083Z

Creating my Spring Brunch French Toast Bake was a labor of love that turned into a family favorite. I found that using brioche bread adds a delightful richness that elevates the dish. On one occasion, I experimented with various toppings and discovered that a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup perfectly complements the sweetness of the fresh strawberries and blueberries. This has become a staple in my home for special occasions!

The key to achieving that perfect custardy texture is letting the bread soak in the egg mixture overnight. The next morning, all I have to do is pop it in the oven, and it comes out golden and bubbly. I love sharing this dish because it feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for those springtime moments with loved ones!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Layers of fluffy bread soaked in creamy custard
Bursting with fresh fruits for a seasonal twist
Perfectly sweet and satisfying for spring gatherings

Perfecting the Custard

The custard mixture is key to achieving that rich, creamy texture that makes this French toast bake a standout. Be careful not to overbeat the eggs, which can incorporate too much air and result in a fluffier, less custardy final product. Instead, whisk until just combined to maintain a smooth consistency. Additionally, using a combination of whole milk and heavy cream enhances the richness, creating a decadent feel that pairs beautifully with the tartness of the fresh fruits.

When adding the cinnamon, it's best to mix it into the dry ingredients before incorporating the wet ones. This step helps to distribute the spice evenly throughout the custard, ensuring that every bite is infused with that warm, inviting flavor that complements the sweetness of the fruits. If you want a bit more depth, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or even a splash of orange zest to the custard for a vibrant twist.

Tips for Baking

Baking the French toast bake at the right temperature is crucial for achieving the ideal texture. Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) ensures that the bake cooks evenly. If you're unsure if it's done, look for a golden-brown top with slightly puffed up edges, which indicates that the custard has set properly. If it’s browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while it finishes cooking.

Letting the dish cool slightly before serving not only makes it safer to handle but also enhances the flavors as they settle. This resting period allows for the custard to firm up a bit more, making it easier to slice and serve. I recommend serving it warm, dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with maple syrup, which beautifully balances the dish's sweetness and gives it a delightful finishing touch.

Make-Ahead and Serving Suggestions

One of the best aspects of this Spring Brunch French Toast Bake is its make-ahead capability. You can assemble the dish a day in advance, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free brunch with your guests. Just prepare the dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld even further, making for a tastier outcome when you bake it the next morning.

Feel free to get creative with the fruits! While strawberries and blueberries are fantastic, you can substitute with raspberries, sliced peaches, or even bananas for a different seasonal flair. If you're looking to make it even more indulgent, consider adding a layer of cream cheese between the bread and fruit. This variation provides a rich contrast and takes the whole dish to another level, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this tasty brunch dish:

Ingredients

1 loaf of brioche bread, cubed
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
1 cup fresh blueberries
Powdered sugar for serving
Maple syrup for serving

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

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

Prepare the Bread

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed brioche bread with the sliced strawberries and blueberries. Toss gently until well mixed.

Make the Custard

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.

Combine and Soak

Pour the custard mixture over the bread and fruit. Make sure all the bread is well-coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake the mixture for 45–50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

Serve

Allow to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup.

Enjoy this delicious dish with your family and friends!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a dash of nutmeg or a splash of orange zest to the custard mixture.

Ingredient Customizations

This recipe can easily be adapted for different dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with almond or oat milk, and use a plant-based cream alternative. The texture may vary slightly, but the delightful flavors will still shine through. Similarly, swapping out the brioche for a gluten-free bread works well for those avoiding gluten, ensuring everyone can partake in this delicious brunch option.

If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can cut back on the granulated sugar or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or agave syrup instead. Keep in mind that adjusting sweetness may impact the overall flavor balance, so taste as you go to find the perfect harmony.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your French Toast Bake, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is simple; just place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the original texture while warming the flavors back to life, making them enjoyable days later.

For longer storage, consider freezing the bake. Once it has cooled completely, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, storing them for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned earlier for a delightful brunch treat anytime.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of bread?

Absolutely! Challah or Texas toast works wonderfully as well.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, it's perfect for making ahead of time! Just follow the soaking steps the night before.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I freeze this French toast bake?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.