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Cozy Strawberry Shortcake French Toast Bake Recipe with Easy Whipped Cream

strawberry shortcake french toast bake - featured image

A comforting and indulgent French toast bake featuring brioche soaked in a rich custard, layered with fresh strawberries, and topped with homemade whipped cream. Perfect for lazy weekend mornings or brunch gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups cubed brioche bread (about 8 ounces or 225 grams)
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk (480 ml)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml) for custard
  • ½ cup granulated sugar (100 grams)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for greasing the baking dish)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
  • For the whipped cream:
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml), chilled
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Cube the brioche into roughly 1-inch pieces and spread evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Slice the strawberries and scatter them evenly over the bread cubes.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
  4. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and strawberries. Gently press down to help the bread soak up the custard.
  5. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to absorb the custard.
  6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Bake uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set (a knife inserted in the center should come out clean).
  8. While baking, chill a mixing bowl and beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form to make whipped cream.
  9. Once baked, dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm with generous dollops of fresh whipped cream.

Notes

Use day-old brioche for better custard absorption. Grease the baking dish well to avoid sticking. Tent with foil if the top browns too quickly. Let the bake cool a few minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts. For dairy-free, substitute milk and cream with plant-based alternatives and use coconut cream for whipped topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry shortcake, French toast bake, brioche, whipped cream, breakfast, brunch, easy recipe, comfort food