Baked French Toast Casserole With Berries

Name: Baked French Toast Casserole With Berries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf crusty bread, cut into cubes; 8 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); Powdered sugar for dusting; Maple syrup for serving

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Favorites

I’ve always been a fan of breakfast recipes that feel decadent yet are surprisingly easy to prepare. This Baked French Toast Casserole with Berries is one of my all-time favorites! The combination of fluffy bread soaked in a creamy custard, paired with the sweet-tart flavor of fresh berries, creates a delightful dish that’s perfect for brunch gatherings or lazy weekend mornings. Best of all, you can assemble it the night before and simply bake it in the morning, making it a hassle-free indulgence!

Created by

Lauren Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-02-16T05:45:36.785Z

When I first tried making baked French toast, I was amazed at how simple it was compared to traditional frying methods. The trick I found is to really let the bread soak in the custard for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. I usually use crusty artisan bread; it holds up well and adds a lovely texture.

Top it off with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup—trust me, it's worth the wait! The berries provide a burst of freshness and their vibrant colors make the dish visually stunning. I love serving this to guests—it’s met with rave reviews every time!

Why You'll Love This Baked French Toast Casserole
Perfect combination of fluffy texture and fruity freshness
Make-ahead recipe that saves time on busy mornings
Easily customizable with your favorite fruits and toppings

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of bread is crucial for a successful Baked French Toast Casserole. I recommend using a crusty, artisan loaf, as it holds up well to soaking without becoming mushy. Baguette or sourdough are excellent options, as their texture lends a delightful chewiness. Avoid pre-sliced bread varieties, which can absorb too much liquid and turn overly soggy in the baking process.

The blend of eggs, milk, and cream creates a rich custard that envelops the bread and berries beautifully. If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can swap heavy cream for whole milk or a plant-based milk alternative. Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly. The sugar adds sweetness, but feel free to adjust it based on your taste preferences, especially considering the natural sweetness of the berries.

Baking Tips for Perfection

As you prepare to bake, make sure your oven is adequately preheated to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the casserole cooks evenly, creating a golden, crisp top while keeping the center creamy. If you’re looking for a little extra crunch, consider broiling the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

It's essential to let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking. This resting time allows the custard to set fully, making for neater slices and a more enjoyable texture. When serving, a light dusting of powdered sugar not only adds a touch of elegance but also balances the flavors, enhancing the sweetness without overwhelming the palate.

Ingredients

Gather these delightful ingredients to create your Baked French Toast Casserole.

Ingredients

1 loaf crusty bread, cut into cubes
8 large eggs
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Powdered sugar for dusting
Maple syrup for serving

Make sure you have everything prepped for an easy cooking experience!

Instructions

Here’s how to bring your delicious Baked French Toast Casserole together step by step!

Prepare the Bread

In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes and mixed berries. Gently toss them together and set aside.

Make the Custard

In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Combine Ingredients

Pour the egg mixture over the bread and berries, ensuring everything is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.

Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

Serve and Enjoy

Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup drizzled over it. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Now, sit back and enjoy your delicious casserole with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, use half-and-half instead of regular milk. Add nuts or chocolate chips to the casserole for extra texture and taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the best features of this Baked French Toast Casserole is its make-ahead capability. For the ultimate ease, prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and you’ll save valuable time in the morning while still serving a delicious breakfast.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or pop the whole casserole back in a 350°F oven until warmed through. You may want to sprinkle a few drops of milk or cream over it before reheating to maintain moisture.

Customizations and Variations

This casserole is remarkably versatile and can be tailored to suit your preferences! Feel free to mix and match the berries; blackberries and peaches are excellent alternatives if you want to switch things up. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the custard or mixing in some chopped nuts for a satisfying crunch.

For a decadent twist, drizzle caramel sauce over the top just before serving. You could also experiment with different toppings like whipped cream or Greek yogurt, adding a creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the fruit. Whether you stick to the classic or venture into new flavors, this dish is bound to impress.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.

→ What type of bread is best for this recipe?

A crusty artisan bread works well, but you can also use brioche or challah for a sweeter flavor.

→ Can I use frozen berries?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any extra liquid before adding them to the casserole.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.