Lemon-Berry French Toast Strata

1 bag (12 ounces) frozen mixed berries, thawed and drained

½ cup pure maple syrup, plus additional for serving

6 cups 1-inch cubes day-old country-style white bread with crusts (about 12 ounces or ¾ loaf)

7 large eggs

3½ cups milk (more if needed)

1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

¼ teaspoon salt

Arrange rack in center of the oven and heat to 350 degrees. Lightly butter 9-by-13-inch glass baking dish or 14-inch oval gratin dish.

Drain thawed berries, reserving juice. Measure juice and milk to equal 4 cups.

Pour maple syrup into baking dish; scatter bread cubes and berries in dish.

In large bowl, whisk together eggs, juice/milk, lemon zest and salt; pour over bread cubes. Bake strata until puffed and golden brown, about 60 minutes. Transfer to rack to cool 5 minutes, then serve warm with additional maple syrup.

Serves eight to 10.

Adapted from Epicurious.com, May 2007