1 loaf of challah or brioche bread, cut into cubes
8 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Powdered sugar, for serving (optional)
For Topping:
Maple syrup (optional)
Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Bread Cubes
Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
Combine Bread and Custard
Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes and gently toss to ensure all pieces are coated. Let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb the mixture.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. You can mix in a little sugar or vanilla for extra flavor if desired.
Layer the Casserole
In the greased baking dish, spread half of the soaked bread mixture evenly. Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the bread, then sprinkle half of the mixed berries on top.
Add Remaining Bread and Berries
Top with the remaining bread mixture, pressing down gently. Finish by scattering the remaining berries on top.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
Serve Warm
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, and serve with maple syrup or fresh mint leaves.