What’s the ultimate breakfast indulgence? A rich Nutella french toast casserole with homemade chocolate sauce and fresh strawberries, perfect for a quick and easy family favorite weekend brunch. Save this idea for a decadent treat to make soon.

nutella french toast casserole with chocolate sauce and strawberries on the side

Introduction

Imagine a breakfast or brunch dish that combines the richness of Nutella, the decadence of chocolate sauce, and the freshness of strawberries, all wrapped up in a crispy, golden French toast casserole. This Nutella French toast casserole with chocolate sauce and strawberries on the side is not only a treat for the taste buds, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make and requires minimal effort. Using everyday ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend morning with family and friends. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your dietary preferences and creative twists.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of Nutella, chocolate sauce, and fresh strawberries creates a perfect balance of rich, sweet, and tangy flavors. Moreover, the ingredients are easily accessible in most grocery stores, making it a convenient option for last-minute preparations.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation, this casserole is remarkably easy to prepare. It involves simple steps like dipping bread in egg mixture, layering, and baking, which can be managed by anyone, regardless of their cooking experience.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The layered effect of the French toast, the drizzle of chocolate sauce, and the sprinkle of fresh strawberries make for a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress your guests. All this, without requiring hours of intricate cooking or decorating.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this recipe include Challah or brioche bread, Nutella, eggs, milk, cinnamon, strawberries, and chocolate sauce. For the bread, you can opt for any thick, dense bread that can hold up well to soaking in the egg mixture. Nutella, being the star of the show, provides the chocolate-hazelnut flavor, but you can also experiment with other chocolate spreads. Fresh strawberries add a pop of color and freshness, but feel free to substitute with other berries or fruits according to your preference. Lastly, the chocolate sauce can be store-bought or homemade, depending on your choice.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven is heating up, slice your bread into thick slices, approximately 1-1.5 inches thick. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and a sprinkle of cinnamon until well combined.
2. Step 2: Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly. Place the coated bread slices in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish. You may need to trim some slices to fit the dish snugly. Spread a generous amount of Nutella over the bread layer, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Step 3: Repeat the layering process until all the bread and Nutella are used up, finishing with a layer of bread on top. You can drizzle any remaining egg mixture over the top layer of bread. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and puffed up.
4. Step 4: While the casserole is baking, prepare your chocolate sauce according to the package instructions or your recipe. Slice the strawberries and set them aside. Once the casserole is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle the warm chocolate sauce over the top and serve with sliced strawberries on the side.

Handy Tips

• For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
• Consider using day-old bread to reduce sogginess and enhance the French toast texture.
• Don’t over-soak the bread in the egg mixture, as this can make the casserole too soggy.

Heat Control

Maintaining the right oven temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect golden brown color and texture. Ensure your oven is at 350°F (180°C) throughout the baking process. For doneness, check if the top is golden and the casserole is puffed. If you’re unsure, insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right crunch and texture is key to this dish. The bread should be toasted to a golden crisp on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside. The broiling step at the end can enhance this crunch. Additionally, serving with fresh strawberries adds a natural crunch and freshness to the dish.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Prepare your ingredients ahead of time. Having everything ready to go can make the assembly and baking process much smoother.
• Experiment with different types of bread and spreads to create unique flavor combinations.
• For easier serving, consider baking the casserole in individual portions using ramekins or small baking dishes.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing is also an option; simply thaw and reheat when needed. However, the texture might slightly differ after freezing.
• Use airtight containers to store leftovers and keep them fresh for a longer period.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this casserole, perhaps for a brunch gathering or a housewarming, you can package it in a beautiful baking dish with a clear lid or wrap it in aluminum foil with a decorative ribbon. Include a side of chocolate sauce and fresh strawberries in separate containers for a complete gift. Don’t forget to add a personal touch with a handwritten recipe card or a note with reheating instructions.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the egg mixture for an extra depth of flavor.
• Creative toppings: In addition to strawberries, consider using other fruits like blueberries, bananas, or even caramelized bananas for a different twist.
• Ingredient swaps: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread. You can also experiment with dairy-free milk alternatives for a non-dairy version.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the casserole turns out too soggy, it might be due to over-soaking the bread or using too much egg mixture. Conversely, if it’s too dry, the bread might have been too old or overbaked.
• Ingredient replacements: Always consider the flavor and texture you’re replacing when substituting ingredients. For example, replacing Nutella with peanut butter will give a distinctly different taste.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the casserole’s color and texture. An undercooked casserole will be pale and soggy, while an overcooked one will be too brown and dry.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.
• Is it gluten-free? Not in its original form, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free bread.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely, just ensure you have a large enough baking dish to accommodate the increased ingredients.

Conclusion

This Nutella French toast casserole with chocolate sauce and strawberries on the side is a game-changer for any breakfast or brunch gathering. It’s easy, impressive, and caters to a variety of tastes and dietary needs with minimal adjustments. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own, whether that’s through different spices, toppings, or ingredient swaps. Share your creations and enjoy the process of cooking and sharing meals with loved ones. Happy cooking!