OVEN STRAWBERRY FRENCH TOAST

Fresh, warm, and bursting with flavor, OVEN STRAWBERRY FRENCH TOAST is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a leisurely weekend brunch or a festive holiday breakfast. This recipe combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with creamy richness, making it a delightful treat that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a make-ahead option that saves you time in the morning!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: This OVEN STRAWBERRY FRENCH TOAST comes together quickly, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast without extensive cooking.
• Make-Ahead Option: Perfect for busy mornings! Prepare it the night before and bake it just before serving.
• Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of fresh strawberries and cream elevates this dish, giving it a unique flavor profile.
• Feeds a Crowd: With 8 servings, this recipe is ideal for entertaining friends or family without stress.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your serving with whipped cream, syrup, or additional berries for an extra touch.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best OVEN STRAWBERRY FRENCH TOAST, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9 x 13)
• Sharp knife
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden top.
• Sharp knife: A good knife allows for clean cuts of the bread, ensuring even slices for optimal absorption of flavors.

Ingredients

Fresh Strawberries and cream bring rich flavor to this easy Oven Strawberry French Toast recipe. Perfect make ahead recipe for breakfast or brunch!

Bread Base

• 1 loaf Italian bread (day old loaf)

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups milk (2% or whole)
• 2 TBSP granulated sugar
• 8 large eggs

Flavor Enhancers

• 1/2 tsp fresh lemon zest (optional)
• 1/4 tsp almond extract
• 1/8 tsp salt

How to Make OVEN STRAWBERRY FRENCH TOAST

Step 1: Gather Ingredients and Preheat Oven

Start by gathering your ingredients. If you are baking this dish right away, preheat the oven to 375°. Grease or spray a 9 x 13 baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Slice the Bread

Use a sharp knife to slice the bread into 16 slices. Discard or save the ends to use in another dish as they can be perfect for breadcrumbs later.

Step 3: Arrange Bread and Strawberries

Arrange the bread slices neatly in the baking pan. Tuck sliced strawberries between and around the bread pieces for added flavor.

Step 4: Prepare Egg Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, sugar, lemon zest (if using), almond extract, and salt until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Pour the egg mixture over the arranged bread slices. Most of it will be absorbed by the bread but don’t worry if there’s some left at the bottom. Press down on top of the bread gently to assist absorption. Let sit for about 15 – 20 minutes.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake on the center rack of your preheated oven for about 45 – 55 minutes. The bread should feel firm when gently pressed and have a crispy golden top. If soft when pressed, continue baking while checking every 5 minutes until done.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Serve your delicious OVEN STRAWBERRY FRENCH TOAST hot from the oven with extra berries, whipped cream, and strawberry syrup on top for an indulgent treat.

Step 8: Make Ahead Tips

If you prefer making this dish ahead of time, cover it with plastic wrap after assembling and store in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours. Allow it to stand at room temperature while preheating your oven before baking.

How to Serve OVEN STRAWBERRY FRENCH TOAST

Serving Oven Strawberry French Toast can elevate your breakfast or brunch experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this delicious dish.

Fresh Berries

• Use a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a vibrant, colorful presentation. The freshness enhances the flavors of the French toast.

Whipped Cream

• Lightly dollop some whipped cream on top for a rich, creamy texture. It adds an indulgent touch that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the strawberries.

Maple Syrup

• Drizzle warm maple syrup over the top for added sweetness. This classic pairing enhances the overall flavor profile.

Yogurt

• Serve with a side of Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast. This option adds creaminess while offering a healthier twist.

Nuts

• Sprinkle toasted almonds or pecans on top for crunch. The nuts add texture and depth to each bite.

Mint Leaves

• Garnish with fresh mint leaves to brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise. The mint adds freshness and a hint of herbal aroma.

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How to Perfect OVEN STRAWBERRY FRENCH TOAST

To make sure your Oven Strawberry French Toast turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use day-old bread: It absorbs the egg mixture better, leading to a softer interior.
• Let it soak: Allowing the bread to soak in the egg mixture for 15-20 minutes ensures even flavor distribution.
• Preheat your oven: Always preheat to 375° before baking for consistent cooking results.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Check frequently after 45 minutes to avoid overcooking and ensure a golden top.
• Experiment with flavors: Consider adding cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra warmth and depth.
• Serve immediately: For best taste and texture, serve your French toast right after baking while it’s still warm.

Best Side Dishes for OVEN STRAWBERRY FRENCH TOAST

Enjoying Oven Strawberry French Toast can be even better with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options that pair well:

1. Crispy Bacon: The saltiness of crispy bacon balances the sweetness of the French toast beautifully.
2. Sausage Links: Juicy sausage links provide protein and pair nicely with the fruity flavors.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings additional vitamins and colors to your plate.
4. Breakfast Potatoes: Seasoned roasted or fried potatoes add heartiness to your meal.
5. Smoothie Bowl: A berry smoothie bowl offers a cool contrast and keeps breakfast light and refreshing.
6. Eggs Benedict: For a more decadent brunch option, serve with Eggs Benedict topped with hollandaise sauce.
7. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal can add comfort and is an excellent source of fiber.
8. Avocado Toast: The creamy avocado spread on toasted bread provides healthy fats and complements sweet dishes well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Oven Strawberry French Toast can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results.

• Using fresh bread – Fresh bread can become soggy. Opt for day-old Italian bread for the best texture.
• Skipping the soak time – Not allowing the bread to absorb the egg mixture results in uneven cooking. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before baking.
• Overcrowding the pan – Packing too much bread and strawberries together can prevent even cooking. Ensure there’s some space between each piece.
• Not checking doneness – Baking times can vary. Press gently on the top to check if it’s firm and golden; continue baking if soft.
• Forgetting about toppings – Serving without extras like whipped cream or syrup misses out on flavor enhancements. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover Oven Strawberry French Toast in an airtight container.
• item It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing OVEN STRAWBERRY FRENCH TOAST

• item Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• item Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating OVEN STRAWBERRY FRENCH TOAST

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Oven Strawberry French Toast that might help you enjoy this dish even more!

Can I use frozen strawberries for OVEN STRAWBERRY FRENCH TOAST?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well! Just thaw them first and drain excess liquid before adding them to the dish.

How do I make OVEN STRAWBERRY FRENCH TOAST gluten-free?

You can substitute regular Italian bread with gluten-free bread. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare OVEN STRAWBERRY FRENCH TOAST ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and store it in the fridge, then bake it fresh in the morning.

What toppings go well with OVEN STRAWBERRY FRENCH TOAST?

Popular options include whipped cream, maple syrup, or additional fresh berries for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Oven Strawberry French Toast is a delightful breakfast option that combines rich flavors with easy preparation. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various toppings and fruits. Try this recipe at your next gathering or brunch; your guests will be impressed!