Name: Mixed Berry French Toast Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 9 h
Yield: 10
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: Cooking spray; 1 Texas toast loaf; 8 oz cream cheese; ⅓ cup white sugar; 1½ cups mixed berries; 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; 8 large eggs; 1½ cups milk; ¾ cup maple syrup; 6 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Imagine waking up to a breakfast that is both absolutely delicious and festive. This mixed berry french toast recipe is a breakfast treat that incorporates a mix of sweet and tart berries, cream cheese, and french toast, making it a perfect brunch dish that is sure to impress your guests.

Photos of Mixed Berry French Toast Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this mixed berry french toast are commonly found in home pantries. However, Texas toast, which is a type of packaged bread that is sliced thicker than average, might not be readily available in some homes or locations. When you go to the supermarket, look for it in the bread section, or you might find it in the freezer section. Similarly, the mixed berries can be fresh or frozen, whichever is more convenient for you.

Mixed Berry French Toast Ingredients and Their Explanations

Cooking spray: Used to grease the pan and prevent the toast from sticking.

Texas toast: Thickly sliced bread that holds up well in this recipe.

Cream cheese: Provides a tangy, creamy element to the dish.

White sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the berries.

Mixed berries: Adds a sweet and tart flavor. Can use fresh or frozen.

Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a slight spiciness.

Large eggs: They help to bind all the ingredients together.

Milk: Adds moisture to the toast.

Maple syrup: Provides a sweet, rich flavor.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps in browning the toast.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

One reader, Aldrich Hager says:

This mixed berry French toast recipe is a game-changer! The combination of creamy cream cheese, sweet berries, and the hint of cinnamon is simply divine. The make-ahead option is a lifesaver for busy mornings. It's a guaranteed hit with the family and a new brunch favorite for sure!

Aldrich Hager

Key Techniques for Making Mixed Berry French Toast

How to layer the French toast: Layer half of the bread in the pan, then spread the cream cheese and sugar mixture over it, followed by a layer of mixed berries. Add the remaining bread on top and sprinkle with cinnamon.

How to make the egg mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.

How to soak the bread: Pour the egg mixture over the assembled French toast in the pan, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure the bread soaks up the liquid evenly.

How to refrigerate overnight: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the egg mixture.

How to serve: Once baked, slice the French toast into portions and serve with additional maple syrup on the side.

How To Make Mixed Berry French Toast

Each bite of this berry French toast is packed with heavenly flavors of cream cheese, tart berries, and Texas toast, all soaked in a sweet milk-maple syrup.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Chill Time: 8 hours

Total: 9 hours

Serves:

Ingredients

cooking spray
1Texas toast loaf
8ozcream cheese,(1 package), softened
⅓cupwhite sugar
1½cupsmixed berries,frozen, thawed and drained
1tbspground cinnamon
8large eggs
1½cupsmilk
¾cupmaple syrup
6tbspunsalted butter,melted
1tspvanilla extract

Instructions

Coat a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray. Layer ½ of the bread in the pan.
Beat the cream cheese and sugar together with an electric mixer until creamy. Drop by teaspoonfuls over the bread. Layer mixed berries on top, then layer on the remaining bread. Sprinkle with cinnamon.
Mix the eggs, milk, maple syrup, butter, and vanilla extract together in a bowl and pour over bread. Press with a spatula to soak up mixture.
Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours to overnight.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Bake in the oven for 45 to 50 minutes until golden and set.
Serve with maple syrup, and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 445.25kcal
Fat: 23.15g
Saturated Fat: 11.13g
Trans Fat: 0.30g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.11g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.64g
Carbohydrates: 48.63g
Fiber: 2.48g
Sugar: 28.22g
Protein: 11.92g
Cholesterol: 195.73mg
Sodium: 356.17mg
Calcium: 172.46mg
Potassium: 276.12mg
Iron: 2.30mg
Vitamin A: 222.90µg
Vitamin C: 2.26mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Elevating Your Mixed Berry French Toast

To ensure that the french toast is evenly soaked with the egg and milk mixture, press down the bread layers with a spatula after pouring the mixture. This will help the bread absorb the liquid more effectively, resulting in a more flavorful and moist french toast. Additionally, when layering the cream cheese and mixed berries, try to distribute them evenly over the bread to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Mixed Berry French Toast

Prep ahead: Prepare the cream cheese mixture and soak the bread the night before, so all you have to do in the morning is bake it.

Use frozen berries: Save time by using frozen mixed berries instead of fresh ones, as they are already washed and ready to use.

Bake in batches: If you're making a large quantity, consider baking the French toast in batches to save time and ensure even cooking.

Invest in a good knife: A sharp knife can make slicing the bread and berries quicker and more efficient.

Organize your workspace: Before you start, make sure all your ingredients and tools are easily accessible to streamline the cooking process.

Delegate: Enlist the help of family or friends to assist with the preparation and assembly of the French toast, making the process more efficient and enjoyable.

Substitute Ingredients For Mixed Berry French Toast Recipe

cooking spray - Substitute with butter: Butter can add a rich flavor and help prevent sticking, just like cooking spray.
texas toast loaf - Substitute with brioche loaf: Brioche has a similar rich and buttery texture that works well for French toast.
cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese has a creamy texture and mild flavor that can work as a substitute for cream cheese in this recipe.
white sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the French toast.
mixed berries - Substitute with sliced peaches: Sliced peaches can provide a sweet and juicy alternative to mixed berries.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can add a warm and slightly sweet flavor similar to cinnamon.
large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs can work as a binding agent and provide a similar texture in the French toast.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can add a nutty flavor and creamy texture similar to regular milk.
maple syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the French toast.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor when used for cooking.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can add a nutty and sweet flavor similar to vanilla extract.

Presentation Ideas for a Delightful Mixed Berry French Toast

Elevate the plating: When presenting the mixed berry French toast, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing arrangement on the plate. Consider using a circular mold to neatly stack the French toast and berries, and drizzle the maple syrup in a decorative pattern around the plate.
Garnish with fresh berries: Add a pop of color and freshness to the dish by garnishing with a few carefully placed fresh berries. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor to each bite.
Dust with powdered sugar: Before serving, delicately dust the French toast with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar. This adds a touch of sophistication and a hint of sweetness to the dish.
Accompany with a dollop of whipped cream: For a luxurious touch, serve the mixed berry French toast with a small dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side. This adds a creamy, indulgent element to the presentation.
Use a fine drizzle of maple syrup: Instead of simply pouring the maple syrup over the French toast, carefully drizzle a fine, artistic pattern of syrup on the plate. This attention to detail enhances the overall presentation and showcases the dish's key flavors.
Incorporate edible flowers: For an extra touch of elegance, consider incorporating edible flowers as a garnish. Choose delicate, colorful blooms that complement the mixed berries and add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect French Toast

Cooking spray: Used to coat the baking pan to prevent the French toast from sticking.
Electric mixer: Used to beat the cream cheese and sugar together until creamy.
9x13-inch pan: Used to layer the bread and other ingredients for baking the French toast.
Bowl: Used for mixing the eggs, milk, maple syrup, butter, and vanilla extract together.
Spatula: Used to press the bread to soak up the egg mixture.
Oven: Used for baking the French toast.

Storing and Freezing Mixed Berry French Toast: A Guide

Let the french toast cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the fridge, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
For freezing, wrap the cooled french toast tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat refrigerated leftovers, cover with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, or until warm.
If reheating from frozen, thaw the french toast overnight in the refrigerator. Then, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat directly from frozen, but increase the baking time to 45-60 minutes, covering with foil for the first 30 minutes to prevent over-browning.
For best results, serve the reheated mixed berry french toast with a drizzle of warm maple syrup and a dollop of freshly whipped cream, if desired.

How To Reheat Leftover Mixed Berry French Toast

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover mixed berry french toast in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. The foil will help prevent the top from browning further and drying out. This method is ideal for reheating larger portions.
For smaller portions or individual slices, you can use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the french toast slices on the rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can reheat the mixed berry french toast in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 30-60 seconds, depending on the thickness of the slice and your microwave's power. Be aware that microwaving may cause the french toast to become slightly soggy.
For a crispy exterior and a soft interior, you can reheat the french toast in a skillet or griddle. Melt a small amount of butter over medium heat and place the slices in the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until heated through and crispy. This method is perfect for achieving a freshly-cooked taste and texture.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your mixed berry french toast. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the slices in the basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside. This method is quick and provides a crispy texture without the need for additional oil.

Surprising Fact About Mixed Berry French Toast

The mixed berry French toast recipe is a delightful way to incorporate a variety of berries into a classic breakfast dish. This dish offers a burst of flavor and a pop of color, making it a visually appealing and delicious option for a weekend brunch. The combination of cream cheese, mixed berries, and maple syrup creates a sweet and tangy flavor profile that is sure to please any crowd. Additionally, the overnight refrigeration allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish. Whether served with a side of crispy bacon or a dollop of whipped cream, this French toast is a delightful treat.

Is This Mixed Berry French Toast Recipe Budget-Friendly?

The cost-effectiveness of this mixed berry French toast recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as bread, cream cheese, mixed berries, and eggs, are relatively affordable and commonly found in households. The recipe yields a generous portion, making it suitable for a family of four. The approximate cost for the entire recipe is around $15, making it a budget-friendly option for a delightful breakfast or brunch. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is Mixed Berry French Toast Healthy or Unhealthy?

This mixed berry french toast recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main culprits are:

High sugar content from the white sugar, maple syrup, and even the bread itself
Significant amount of saturated fat from the cream cheese, eggs, milk, and butter
Refined carbohydrates in the white bread, which lack fiber and nutrients

However, there are some redeeming qualities, such as the mixed berries, which provide antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. The eggs also offer a good source of protein.

To make this recipe healthier without sacrificing taste, consider the following modifications:

Swap the white bread for a whole grain or sprouted grain variety to increase fiber and nutrient content
Reduce the amount of sugar and maple syrup, or replace them with natural sweeteners like honey or date syrup
Use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt instead of full-fat cream cheese to cut down on saturated fat
Opt for a plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk, to reduce the overall fat and calorie content
Increase the proportion of mixed berries to boost the nutritional value of the dish

Additionally, serving the french toast with fresh fruit, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts can add more nutrients and healthy fats to the meal.

Editor's Take on This Delectable Mixed Berry French Toast Recipe

This mixed berry French toast recipe is a delightful combination of creamy, sweet, and fruity flavors. The use of Texas toast provides a hearty base, while the cream cheese and mixed berries add a luscious and tangy element. The overnight refrigeration allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish. The addition of cinnamon and maple syrup provides a warm and comforting aroma, making it a perfect breakfast or brunch option. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional French toast, and the end result is sure to impress and satisfy your guests.

Enhance Your Mixed Berry French Toast Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a hint of garlic and lemon zest.

Grilled Pineapple: Juicy pineapple slices grilled to caramelized perfection, adding a sweet and tangy complement to the french toast.

Bacon-wrapped Dates: Savory bacon wrapped around sweet dates, creating a delightful contrast of flavors to accompany the mixed berry french toast.

Tasty Alternatives to Mixed Berry French Toast

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a zesty herb dressing before grilling for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Braised Beef Short Ribs: Slow cook the beef short ribs in a rich red wine sauce until tender and flavorful, perfect for a comforting dinner.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine ripe mangoes and creamy coconut milk with chia seeds for a refreshing and nutritious dessert or breakfast option.

Chicken Tortilla Soup: Simmer tender chicken, vegetables, and spices in a flavorful broth, then top with crispy tortilla strips for a satisfying and hearty soup.

Apple Cinnamon Crisp: Bake sweet and tart apples with a crunchy cinnamon oat topping for a warm and comforting dessert, perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Mixed Berry French Toast

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory and rich, these stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any occasion. Filled with a creamy and flavorful filling, they are sure to impress your guests.

Caprese Skewers: These caprese skewers are a fresh and vibrant appetizer that is both simple and elegant. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze is a delightful start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and decadent texture will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Berry Parfait: Layer fresh berries with creamy yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and light berry parfait. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors, along with the different textures, creates a delightful and satisfying dessert.

Why trust this Mixed Berry French Toast Recipe:

This mixed berry French toast recipe is a delightful combination of Texas toast, cream cheese, and a medley of mixed berries. The creamy and sweet flavors are enhanced with a hint of cinnamon, creating a perfect balance. The use of maple syrup and vanilla extract adds depth and richness to the dish. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a simple overnight refrigeration, this recipe is convenient and perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the thoughtful combination of flavors to create a memorable dining experience.

Want to share your favorite French toast recipes or discuss tips for making the perfect mixed berry topping? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make this recipe healthier, you can use whole grain bread instead of white bread, reduce the amount of sugar, and use a low-fat cream cheese. You can also consider reducing the amount of butter and using a sugar-free maple syrup alternative.

Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen berries instead of fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess moisture in the French toast.

Can I prepare this recipe the night before?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for preparing the night before. Simply follow the instructions up to step 4, cover the dish, and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for an easy and delicious breakfast the next morning.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use different types of bread such as brioche, challah, or whole wheat bread. Just ensure that the bread is thick and sturdy enough to hold up to the egg mixture and fillings.

Can I substitute the cream cheese with another ingredient?

If you're not a fan of cream cheese, you can substitute it with mascarpone cheese or a layer of Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.