Description
This irresistible Brioche French Toast Casserole with Blackberries is a decadent breakfast or brunch treat. Featuring rich custard-soaked brioche slices infused with almond-flavored amaretto, sweetened brown sugar, and juicy blackberries, it bakes up golden and puffed for a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and fruity flavors. Ideal for a special occasion or cozy weekend morning, this casserole delivers comfort and elegance in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard Mixture
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup amaretto liquor (or almond extract)
- 1/4 cup light-color corn syrup
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk (can substitute almond or oat milk)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Main Components
- 1 loaf brioche or challah (fresh loaf recommended)
- 2 cups blackberries
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature while you prepare the casserole.
- Melt Butter and Combine Sweeteners: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in brown sugar, light-color corn syrup, and amaretto liquor until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
- Prepare Custard Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, salt, and nutmeg until fully combined.
- Incorporate Butter Mixture: Slowly add the melted butter mixture to the egg mixture and whisk until silky and smooth, forming the custard base.
- Arrange Brioche: Grease a baking dish, then layer the slices of brioche or challah evenly in the dish to form the base of the casserole.
- Pour Custard Over Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the brioche slices. Gently press the bread down to ensure it soaks up the custard fully.
- Add Blackberries and Sugar: Scatter the fresh blackberries evenly on top of the soaked brioche, then sprinkle granulated sugar over the berries for a caramelized finish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, set, and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow the custard to set perfectly.
Notes
- You can substitute amaretto liquor with almond extract for a non-alcoholic version.
- For dairy-free, use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk.
- Ensure the brioche is fresh for best texture; stale bread will absorb custard better but may become too soggy.
- Letting the casserole sit for 10-15 minutes after baking helps it set and makes slicing easier.
- Add a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup when serving for extra sweetness.
