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Crispy Overnight Brioche French Toast Casserole Recipe with Fresh Berry Compote

crispy overnight brioche French toast casserole - featured image

A rich and tender brioche French toast casserole soaked overnight in a custard, baked to a crispy golden top, and served with a fresh, tangy berry compote. Perfect for effortless weekend brunches or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf brioche bread (about 12 ounces / 340 grams), cut into 1-inch cubes (day-old or slightly stale works best)
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups (16 fl oz) whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing)
  • For the fresh berry compote:
  • 2 cups (10 oz) mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cut the brioche loaf into 1-inch cubes. Optionally, toast lightly in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes to help it soak the custard without getting mushy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or half-and-half, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and fully combined.
  3. Place brioche cubes in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing gently to help absorption. Drizzle melted butter over the top. Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least 6 hours.
  4. About 30 minutes before baking, prepare the berry compote by combining berries, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until berries break down and mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove casserole from fridge and let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until top is golden and custard is set. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  6. Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Spoon fresh berry compote over each portion and serve warm.

Notes

Use day-old brioche for best texture. Toasting bread before soaking is optional but recommended. If top browns too fast, tent with foil. For dairy-free, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives. Frozen berries can be used for compote after thawing and draining excess liquid. Let casserole rest before slicing to firm up the crispy top.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast casserole, brioche, overnight casserole, berry compote, brunch recipe, easy breakfast, baked French toast