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: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cubed; 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries); Butter for greasing the baking dish; Powdered sugar for dusting (optional); Maple syrup for serving

Highlighted under: Pastry & Sweets

I love starting my weekend mornings with something special, and this Baked French Toast Casserole with Berries has become a family favorite. It’s the perfect blend of fluffy bread soaked in a creamy egg mixture and bursting with juicy berries. What I appreciate most is how easy it is to prepare the night before, allowing me to enjoy lazy mornings without much fuss. Topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and maple syrup, it’s a delightful dish that always impresses.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2026-02-16T01:57:35.929Z

When I first attempted this casserole, I was hesitant about how it would turn out. After experimenting with different bread types, I found that using a brioche or challah made all the difference. These breads soak up the egg mixture beautifully while maintaining a soft texture, resulting in a rich and decadent dish.

Another tip I learned is to let the casserole sit in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly, and in the morning, you just pop it in the oven. The aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible, and it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously rich flavor with a berry burst
Easy make-ahead preparation for busy mornings
Perfect for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts

Mastering the Egg Mixture

The egg mixture is the heart of a successful Baked French Toast Casserole. For the best texture, be sure to whisk the eggs thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. Pay close attention to the incorporation of the heavy cream, as it adds a rich, velvety consistency that enhances the overall flavor. This creamy base allows the bread to soak up all the delicious flavors, creating a luscious custard-like interior upon baking.

A tip I’ve learned is to allow the milk and eggs to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps in evenly blending the ingredients, ensuring a consistent texture throughout the casserole. If possible, use whole milk for a richer taste, but if you're watching your calories, low-fat milk can work too. Just keep an eye on the soaking time; lower fat content can cause the bread to absorb quicker.

Enhancing with Berries

The mixed berries in this recipe not only add vibrant color but also infuse the casserole with a burst of natural sweetness. I recommend using a combination of blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries for a well-rounded flavor experience. If fresh berries are unavailable, you can substitute them with frozen berries — just remember to thaw and drain excess moisture to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.

Make sure to gently fold the berries into the soaked bread mixture. Overmixing can cause the berries to break apart, leading to an uneven distribution. A good visual cue is to ensure the bread cubes retain their shape and the berries are scattered throughout instead of being clumped together. This will ensure every bite offers a delightful contrast of fluffy bread and juicy fruit.

Serving and Storing Tips

Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period helps set the custard, making it easier to slice and serve. For a touch of elegance, dust the top with powdered sugar just before serving. When paired with warm maple syrup, the combination will surely elevate your brunch experience.

If there are leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating individual portions in the microwave is quick and convenient, but for best results, I recommend reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to restore that delightful crispiness on top.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful baked treat:

Ingredients

1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cubed
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
Butter for greasing the baking dish
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Maple syrup for serving

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Baked French Toast Casserole:

Prepare the Bread

Begin by greasing a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter. Place the cubed brioche or challah in an even layer in the dish.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.

Combine and Soak

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure all pieces are soaked. Gently fold in the mixed berries.

Cover and Chill

Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 40-45 minutes or until it’s golden brown and set in the center.

Serve and Enjoy

Let cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and serving with maple syrup. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or a splash of orange zest to the egg mixture. The casserole can also be customized with other fruits depending on what's in season.

Make-Ahead Magic

One of the best features of this Baked French Toast Casserole is its make-ahead capability. Preparing it the night before allows the bread to fully soak up the egg mixture, enhancing the flavor and texture. Simply cover the assembled dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, preheat your oven and bake; it’s a wonderful way to cut down on morning stress and ensure a delicious breakfast.

If you plan on an extra busy weekend, consider freezing the casserole after assembling it. Wrap it tightly in foil or use a freezer-safe container, and it can be stored for up to a month. To bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then follow the standard baking instructions. This is a lifesaver for impromptu brunch plans!

Flavor Variations

While the berry combination is delightful, feel free to get creative with your fruit choices. Sliced bananas with chocolate chips can create a decadent treat, or apple slices with cinnamon can give a warm fall vibe. Always remember to adjust the sugar content according to your fruit selections to maintain balance without overpowering the dish's sweetness.

You can also experiment with different types of bread. Though brioche and challah are traditional choices for their rich, buttery flavor, using whole grain bread or sourdough can offer more texture and health benefits. Depending on your preference, let your choice of bread guide the overall profile of the casserole and enhance your next brunch gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen berries?

Yes, frozen berries work well! Just be sure to let them thaw and drain excess liquid before adding them to the dish.

→ Can I prepare this casserole without eggs?

You can use a flaxseed mixture or a store-bought egg substitute to create a similar texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use a gluten-free bread substitute for the base of the casserole.