Overnight Brioche French Toast Casserole with Maple Berries

Serves 6 · 20 min prep · 45 min cook

Ingredients

• 1 lb (about 12 cups) brioche loaf, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 6 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup plus 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar, for dusting
• 1/3 cup chopped toasted pecans (optional)

Instructions

1. 1Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Spread the brioche cubes evenly in the dish; they should fill it loosely without packing too tightly.
2. 2In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until completely smooth and no streaks of egg white remain.
3. 3Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press the top cubes down with a spatula so every piece soaks up liquid. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight (up to 12 hours).
4. 4When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature 15 minutes while the oven heats. Drizzle the melted butter over the top.
5. 5Bake uncovered until the top is deep golden brown, the edges are crisp, and the center is set (a knife inserted in the middle comes out mostly clean), 40 to 48 minutes. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
6. 6While the casserole bakes, combine the mixed berries and remaining maple syrup in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the berries release juices and form a loose compote, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat.
7. 7Let the French toast casserole rest 5 to 8 minutes after baking so it firms up for cleaner slices. Dust lightly with powdered sugar.
8. 8Cut into 6 squares. Spoon warm maple berries over each serving and sprinkle with toasted pecans if using. Serve immediately while the custard is still custardy and the top is crisp.