Name: Berry French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf French bread (14–16 oz), cut into 1-inch cubes; 1½ cups fresh or frozen mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries); 6 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; ½ cup heavy cream; ½ cup maple syrup or honey; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp cinnamon; ¼ tsp salt; 2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces; Powdered sugar (for topping); Maple syrup (for serving)

A delightfully cozy breakfast dish, this Berry French Toast Casserole brings together juicy mixed berries and custard-soaked bread in a warm, comforting bake. Perfect for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or any time I want a make-ahead breakfast that feels a little extra special, this casserole is simple to prepare and even better shared with family or friends.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 loaf French bread (about 14–16 oz), cut into 1-inch cubes

1½ cups fresh or frozen mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)

6 large eggs

2 cups whole milk

½ cup heavy cream

½ cup maple syrup or honey

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp salt

2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces

Powdered sugar (for topping)

Maple syrup (for serving)

Directions

I start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

I spread half the bread cubes into the dish and sprinkle half the berries on top. Then I repeat with the remaining bread and berries.

In a large bowl, I whisk the eggs, milk, cream, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.

I pour this mixture evenly over the bread and berries, pressing down gently to make sure the bread absorbs the custard.

I dot the top with small pieces of butter.

Then I cover the dish tightly with foil and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight.

When I’m ready to bake, I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and let the casserole sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

I bake it covered for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and the custard is set.

After a slight cool, I dust it with powdered sugar and serve it warm with maple syrup.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus overnight chilling)

Cook Time: 55 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus chilling)

Calories per Serving: 320 kcal

Variations

Swap the berries: I sometimes use just one type of berry, like blueberries or strawberries, depending on what I have.

Try different bread: Brioche or challah adds an even richer texture and flavor.

Add a crunch: I occasionally sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top before baking for a little texture.

Go dairy-free: I use almond milk and coconut cream for a dairy-free version with great results.

Spice it up: A dash of nutmeg or cardamom can elevate the flavor for a festive twist.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I either warm individual portions in the microwave for about 45–60 seconds or reheat the entire dish in a 325°F oven until heated through. It’s just as satisfying the next day.

FAQs

What kind of bread works best for this casserole?

I like to use day-old French bread because it holds up well to the custard and gives the casserole a hearty texture. Brioche or sourdough also works beautifully.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, I just swap in my favorite gluten-free bread. I make sure it’s sturdy enough to soak in the custard without falling apart.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely. I freeze it after assembling but before baking. When I’m ready to serve it, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Can I use only fresh or only frozen berries?

Yes, I use either depending on what’s available. If using frozen, I don’t thaw them first—they go straight into the dish.

How do I know when it’s fully baked?

I look for a golden top and check that the center is set and no longer jiggles. A knife inserted in the middle should come out mostly clean.

Conclusion

This Berry French Toast Casserole has become one of my go-to recipes for easy yet elegant breakfasts. I love that I can prep it ahead of time and still serve something warm, sweet, and satisfying in the morning. Whether it’s for a quiet Sunday or a festive holiday, this dish delivers cozy comfort every time.

Recipe:

Berry French Toast Casserole

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A warm and cozy breakfast bake made with custard-soaked French bread and mixed berries. Perfect for make-ahead brunches or holiday mornings.