There’s nothing quite like the sweet and fluffy goodness of a Strawberry Shortcake French Toast Bake! This recipe is special to me because it’s been a family favorite for Saturday morning brunches—there’s just something about waking up to the smell of fresh strawberries and vanilla wafting through the kitchen that gets everyone out of bed a bit more cheerfully. I remember one summer, we had a little get-together and this was the star of the show. Everyone was raving about it, and trust me, it disappeared faster than I could’ve ever imagined!
What I love most about this dish is how it combines the comfort of classic French toast with the delightful essence of strawberry shortcake. It’s basically brunching at its finest! Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare; you can assemble it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning. More time for coffee and less time sweating in the kitchen? Count me in!
What’s in Strawberry Shortcake French Toast Bake?
French Bread: I like using a nice crusty loaf of French bread for this bake. It absorbs the egg mixture beautifully while still holding its shape, creating that perfect soggy-yet-crunchy texture we crave.
Eggs: The binding hero of this recipe! Eggs give the French toast that rich, custardy base. I prefer using free-range eggs for a more ethical choice and better flavor.
Milk: Whole milk is my go-to here for that luxurious richness. If you need a dairy-free option, almond or oat milk works just fine and doesn’t compromise the flavor.
Sugar: A touch of granulated sugar helps to sweeten the custard and caramelizes during baking, giving golden-brown perfection to the dish.
Vanilla Extract: This star ingredient enhances the overall flavor. Always go for pure vanilla extract if you can; it makes a world of difference!
Fresh Strawberries: Juicy, ripe strawberries are a must. You can also use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first!
Whipped Cream: Although optional, a dollop of homemade whipped cream to top this delicious bake makes it feel like a true dessert.
Is Strawberry Shortcake French Toast Bake Good for You?
Oh, where do I begin? While it may not exactly be a health food, there are definitely some redeeming qualities here!
French Bread: Opting for a whole grain variety gives you extra fiber. Just keep an eye on your portion sizes because it can be quite filling!
Eggs: Packed with protein and essential vitamins, eggs can contribute to a balanced breakfast experience.
Strawberries: They’re low in calories but high in antioxidants and vitamin C. They bring all the sweetness without needing too much added sugar.
However, remember that this delightful bake is also rich and indulgent. So, enjoying it occasionally as a treat rather than a daily breakfast is a good idea. Your taste buds will thank you!
Strawberry Shortcake French Toast Bake Ingredients
– 1 loaf (about 12-16 oz) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 6 large eggs
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
This recipe will serve about 8 people, which makes it perfect for gatherings or family brunches!
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake French Toast Bake?
1. **Prepare the Bread:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cut French bread with the sliced strawberries, mixing gently to incorporate.
2. **Make the Custard:** In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. **Combine:** Pour the egg mixture over the bread and strawberries, gently pressing down to ensure all the bread is soaked in the custard. If you have time, cover the dish and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Overnight is even better!
4. **Bake:** Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the egg is set in the middle.
5. **Serve:** Let it cool for a couple of minutes, then slice up generous portions. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream and extra strawberries on the side, if desired.
Brunch Bliss with Extra Tips
– **Add Some Zing:** You can sprinkle in some lemon zest to the custard for a delightful fresh twist!
– **Make it Yours:** Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries, or even add nuts for a little crunch!
– **Don’t Skip the Whipped Cream:** Trust me; it elevates this dish from breakfast to a full-on dessert experience.
There you have it! Strawberry Shortcake French Toast Bake is an absolute joy to make and to eat. I hope you give it a try and let it fill your kitchen with that summery aroma. I would love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t hesitate to share your experience! Happy baking!