Spray bottom and sides of 13x9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish with cooking spray. Place bread cubes in dish. In large bowl, beat eggs, half-and-half, 1/4 cup sugar, the cinnamon, salt and vanilla with wire whisk until smooth; pour over bread cubes. Cover tightly; refrigerate at least 4 hours but no longer than 24 hours.
Step
2
Heat oven to 400°F. Uncover dish; bake 25 to 35 minutes or until golden brown and knife inserted in center comes out clean.
Step
3
Meanwhile, in 2-quart saucepan, stir together 1 cup sugar and the cornstarch. Stir in orange juice until smooth. Stir in mixed berries. Heat to boiling over medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook about 6 minutes, stirring constantly, until topping is slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
Step
4
Just before serving, stir strawberries into topping. Serve warm over French toast bake.
Use a serrated bread knife to easily cut through the bread slices. Slice off and discard the loaf ends so each slice will readily soak up the egg mixture.
Enjoy this recipe with crisp bacon strips and freshly squeezed orange juice.
