Description
This Raspberry Cinnamon French Toast is a delightful and easy make-ahead breakfast casserole. Cubed cinnamon bread is soaked overnight in a rich mixture of eggs, milk, and warm spices, then baked until golden and topped with toasted almonds and fresh raspberries for a perfect balance of sweet and fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Overnight Soaking
- 1 loaf of cinnamon bread, cubed
- 5 eggs, beaten
- 1 3/4 cups milk
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Ingredients for Morning Topping
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- Fresh raspberries, for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Place the cubed cinnamon bread evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, making sure the pieces are spread out to absorb the custard well.
- Mix the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully combined and smooth.
- Soak Overnight: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight to allow the bread to soak up the flavors.
- Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, remove the bread casserole from the refrigerator. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Prepare the Topping Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and 1/4 cup brown sugar until combined. This will create a sweet glaze to enhance the almonds and bread.
- Add Almonds and Glaze: Sprinkle the slivered almonds evenly over the soaked bread. Drizzle the brown sugar and butter mixture over the top to coat the almonds and bread surface.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the bread pudding is set and the center is cooked through. The top should be golden and slightly caramelized.
- Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly. Top generously with fresh raspberries before serving for a fresh and tangy finish.
Notes
- Using cinnamon bread adds extra flavor but you can substitute with challah or brioche if preferred.
- Soaking overnight is key for a custardy and soft yet structured French toast bake.
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the almonds lightly before adding to the casserole.
- Fresh raspberries can be replaced with mixed berries or a berry compote.
- This recipe serves 1 generously but can be easily multiplied for more servings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
