Baked Berry French Toast Casserole

Baked Berry French Toast Casserole is a delightful, make-ahead breakfast dish made with layers of bread soaked in a sweet custard, studded with juicy mixed berries, and baked until golden. Perfect for weekend brunches, holidays, or family gatherings, this dish combines the comfort of French toast with the ease of a casserole.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple to prepare and makes a stunning centerpiece for any breakfast or brunch table. It can be assembled the night before, making it ideal for entertaining or busy mornings. The contrast between the creamy interior and the slightly crisp, golden top—combined with bursts of berry flavor—creates a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Thick-cut bread (brioche, challah, or French bread), cubed

• Eggs

• Whole milk or half-and-half

• Heavy cream (optional for extra richness)

• Sugar

• Vanilla extract

• Ground cinnamon

• Salt

• Mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries – fresh or frozen)

• Butter (for greasing the pan)

• Powdered sugar or maple syrup (for serving)

Directions

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter and add the cubed bread evenly.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream (if using), sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.

3. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, pressing down gently to ensure all pieces soak it in.

4. Scatter the berries evenly over the top and slightly into the bread mixture.

5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.

6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature while the oven heats.

7. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.

8. Let rest for 10 minutes before dusting with powdered sugar or drizzling with syrup. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: About 3 hours 5 minutes (including chill)

Variations

• Use flavored breads like cinnamon-raisin or lemon loaf for a twist.

• Swap berries for chopped apples and walnuts with a sprinkle of nutmeg.

• Add a layer of cream cheese between the bread for richness.

• Replace sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.

• Make it dairy-free with almond milk and coconut cream.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or reheat the whole casserole in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 15–20 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best when prepared the night before and baked in the morning.

Can I use frozen berries?

Absolutely. There’s no need to thaw them; just add directly to the casserole.

What type of bread works best?

Day-old brioche, challah, or French bread hold up well and soak in the custard without becoming mushy.

How do I prevent a soggy bottom?

Make sure the bread isn’t too fresh and allow time for it to soak fully before baking. Bake uncovered to allow the top to crisp.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free bread with a sturdy texture.

Is this recipe sweet enough without syrup?

Yes, it has a subtle sweetness, but you can adjust sugar levels or add syrup according to your preference.

What can I serve this with?

Serve it alongside scrambled eggs, breakfast sausages, or fresh fruit salad for a complete brunch.

Can I add nuts to the casserole?

Yes, pecans or slivered almonds add a delightful crunch when sprinkled on top before baking.

Does it need to sit overnight?

It’s recommended for best texture, but even a 2-hour chill is sufficient.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free milk (almond, oat, soy) and skip the cream or use coconut cream. Also replace butter with a plant-based alternative.

Conclusion

Baked Berry French Toast Casserole is a convenient and luxurious dish that delivers the comforting flavor of classic French toast with added ease and elegance. Whether you’re hosting brunch or preparing breakfast for the family, this vibrant, fruit-filled bake is guaranteed to impress and satisfy every time.

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