Sally'S French Toast Strata
A rich and indulgent breakfast casserole featuring cubes of French bread, cream cheese, and a custard mixture, perfect for brunch or weekend mornings with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut French bread into cubes (about 12 cups).
- Grease a 3-quart rectangular baking pan.
- Place half of the bread cubes in the dish.
- Top with cream cheese cubes and remaining bread cubes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your French toast strata, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the egg mixture. If you want a sweeter touch, incorporate vanilla extract or maple syrup. For a lighter version, you can substitute whole milk for half and half. You can also use a different type of bread, like challah or brioche, for a richer taste. For a fruity twist, add berries or banana slices between the layers.
Serving Suggestions
Sally's French Toast Strata is perfect for brunch gatherings and pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad. Serve it warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar. For a complete breakfast, consider serving alongside crispy bacon or sausage. This dish also works well with a side of whipped cream or yogurt for added creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the strata with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick breakfast.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sally'S French Toast Strata contains roughly 693 calories, with 12g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 656mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the strata the night before?
Yes, you can assemble the strata the night before. After layering the bread and cream cheese, pour the egg mixture over the top, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply bake it as directed for a hassle-free breakfast.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
If you want to avoid cheese altogether, try a vegan cream cheese alternative for a dairy-free option.
How do I know when the strata is done baking?
The strata is done when it is puffed up and golden brown on top. You can also insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing to make serving easier.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).