Berry French Toast Casserole Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing breakfast that’s bursting with fresh flavor, I’ve got just the thing for you. This Berry French Toast Casserole Recipe is one of my all-time favorites — it’s like a giant, cozy hug from the inside out. Whether you’re making it for a lazy weekend brunch or a special occasion, you’ll find that the juicy berries and cinnamon-scented custard soak perfectly into the French bread cubes, creating something downright irresistible.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Berry French Toast Casserole Recipe come together simply but pack a flavorful punch. Using day-old French bread works best since it soaks up the custard without becoming too mushy, and fresh berries are key to that juicy, vibrant touch.

• French bread: Go for a sturdy loaf that’s a day or two old so it absorbs the custard well without falling apart.
• Eggs: The backbone of the custard, eggs add richness and help set the casserole as it bakes.
• 2% milk: I love this choice for a nice balance of creaminess without being too heavy.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
• Cinnamon: It offers just the right hint of spice — feel free to add a pinch more if you really love that cozy flavor!
• Brown sugar: Gives a subtle molasses note that elevates the sweetness naturally.
• Strawberries: Sliced thin for easy distribution and bright color.
• Blueberries: Whole blueberries add bursts of juicy sweetness and a lovely contrast.
• Powdered sugar: To dust on top after baking for that pretty, sweet finale.
• Maple syrup: Because maple just makes everything better! Use as much as you like when serving.

Variations

I absolutely love how flexible this Berry French Toast Casserole Recipe can be—there’s room to toss in your favorite fruits or spice combinations. Play around and make it your own!

• Berry swap: I sometimes use raspberries or blackberries when strawberries aren’t in season, and it still tastes fantastic.
• Nutty crunch: Adding a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking gives a delightful texture contrast.
• Dairy-free: You can swap the milk for almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative; the casserole still bakes up rich.
• More spice: A dash of nutmeg or cardamom in the custard takes the flavor in a fun new direction.

How to Make Berry French Toast Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Casserole and Bread

Start by greasing your 9″x13″ casserole dish generously with vegetable oil or butter—this helps prevent sticking and adds a subtle richness. Then, cube the French bread into roughly 1-inch pieces and fill the dish about three-quarters full. I like to use bread that’s slightly stale; it holds up beautifully once soaked, and you avoid any soggy mess.

Step 2: Whisk Your Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, combine your eggs, 2% milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Whisk everything thoroughly until the brown sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. This step is key to an evenly flavored casserole—don’t rush it!

Step 3: Pour and Add Berries

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring every bite gets soaked. Then, scatter your sliced strawberries and whole blueberries across the top. This not only adds flavor but creates a beautiful mosaic once baked.

Step 4: Chill Before Baking

Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours, or overnight if you can. This soak time is what makes the dish so wonderfully tender and custardy inside—trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

When you’re ready, preheat your oven to 350°F. Unwrap the casserole and bake uncovered for 35 to 50 minutes. At the 35-minute mark, do a quick check—when the custard is set and the top is golden brown, it’s ready. If it needs more time, keep baking but watch closely so it doesn’t dry out.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once out of the oven, dust the top generously with powdered sugar. Serve warm with plenty of maple syrup on the side—this is the part my family goes crazy for every time!

How to Serve Berry French Toast Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a sucker for a fresh sprinkle of powdered sugar right after baking—it’s simple but makes the casserole look cafe-worthy. A few extra fresh berries on top add a pop of color and freshness. Sometimes, I toss on a handful of chopped toasted nuts for crunch, especially when I have them on hand.

Side Dishes

To balance the sweetness, I often serve this casserole with crispy bacon or breakfast sausages. Fresh fruit salad or Greek yogurt on the side adds a refreshing, tangy contrast that brightens the whole meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch party, I like to bake this casserole in individual ramekins—guests love having their own personal portion! Another idea: set up a “toppings bar” with nuts, whipped cream, extra berries, and syrups so everyone can customize their slices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover casserole keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. I find the flavors even deepen overnight, making for a delicious second breakfast or snack.

Freezing

I’ve frozen leftovers wrapped tightly in foil and then placed in freezer bags. When reheated, it’s best to thaw overnight in the fridge before warming up so it stays moist but still creamy.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop my portion into the microwave for about 60-90 seconds or into a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes, covered loosely with foil. This keeps the custard creamy and the top from drying out. Adding a little splash of milk before reheating helps, too.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Berry French Toast Casserole Recipe has become one of my go-to dishes for mornings when I want to feel cozy but still impress family or guests without fuss. I love how versatile it is and how those juicy berries bring a fresh pop to every bite. If you’re searching for a recipe that’s as delightful to eat as it is easy to prep, give this one a try—I promise it’ll become a staple in your brunch rotation just like it did in mine!

Print