Tiramisu French Toast Bake

This decadent Tiramisu French Toast Bake is a dreamy mash-up of classic tiramisu and easy French toast casserole, made perfectly in the Instant Pot. Layers of buttery brioche soaked in a sweet coffee custard are paired with airy mascarpone, dusted with cocoa powder, and finished with homemade whipped cream and fresh strawberries. It’s an irresistible Instant Pot brunch recipe that's perfect for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you're craving a rich and elegant breakfast bake.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, ½ cup sugar, King Arthur Vanilla Extract, and cooled coffee or espresso until fully combined.
2. Butter a 1.5-quart CorningWare or other oven-safe, Instant Pot–safe baking dish.
3. Tear the brioche slices into larger pieces. Dip each piece into the coffee custard, allowing it to soak briefly, and layer into the prepared baking dish to form an even base.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with 3 tablespoons of sugar for about 5 minutes, until light, fluffy, and easy to spread.
5. Spread a thin layer of the whipped mascarpone over the soaked bread. Lightly dust with cocoa powder. Repeat layering brioche, mascarpone, and cocoa powder until the dish is full, ending with a final layer of custard-soaked bread on top.
6. Pour any remaining custard evenly over the bake. Dust the top generously with cocoa powder.
7. Add 1 ½ cup of water to the bottom of the Instant Pot. Place a trivet inside and lower the baking dish onto the trivet. Pressure Cook on High / More for 25 minutes. Allow a natural release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
8. While the bake cooks, beat the heavy whipping cream with 3 tablespoons of sugar until stiff peaks form. Keep chilled until ready to use.
9. Let the tiramisu French toast bake cool slightly for 10–15 minutes. Top with whipped cream, sliced strawberries, and a final dusting of cocoa powder before slicing and serving.