Baked French Toast Casserole With Berries

Name: Baked French Toast Casserole With Berries
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf of brioche bread, sliced; 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); Butter (for greasing)

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I absolutely adore starting my mornings with this Baked French Toast Casserole With Berries! It's a delightful way to enjoy brunch with family or friends. What's great about it is how simple it is to prepare ahead of time — I can whip it up the night before and simply pop it in the oven in the morning. The combination of fluffy bread, creamy custard, and fresh berries creates a mouthwatering dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly straightforward to make.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-16T09:57:37.310Z

When I first tried making this Baked French Toast Casserole, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it turned out! I decided to experiment with different berries, and the burst of flavor they provided was heavenly. The secret is to let the bread soak in the egg mixture long enough to absorb all those yummy flavors. I usually prepare it the evening before a big brunch so it can be ready in no time.

Another tip I discovered is to add a sprinkle of cinnamon and a hint of vanilla extract to the egg mixture. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the casserole a lovely aroma as it bakes. It truly transforms the dish into a breakfast feast, and I love how everyone gathers around the table to enjoy it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fluffy texture with a custardy center that melts in your mouth
Bursting with juicy berries for a fresh touch
Perfect for brunch gatherings and family breakfasts

Choosing the Right Bread

The choice of bread significantly impacts the texture and flavor of this Baked French Toast Casserole. Brioche is an excellent option due to its rich, buttery flavor and soft texture, which soaks up the custard beautifully. However, if brioche is unavailable, challah or a dense country bread can be excellent substitutes. Just ensure that the bread is slightly stale, as this will prevent it from becoming mushy when soaked in the custard mixture.

When slicing the bread, aim for approximately one-inch thick pieces. This thickness allows the bread to hold its shape while absorbing the custard without falling apart. If you want to add a twist, consider using a flavored bread like cinnamon raisin, which will infuse the casserole with additional layers of sweetness and spice.

The Perfect Custard Mixture

Creating the custard mixture is where the magic happens in this recipe. The combination of eggs, milk, and heavy cream not only ensures a creamy texture but also provides the rich flavor that makes this casserole indulgent. Make sure to whisk the mixture thoroughly until it is smooth and well combined; this ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.

For an added depth of flavor, consider infusing the custard with a pinch of nutmeg or substituting some of the milk with almond milk for a nutty twist. Pay attention to the sugar content as well; adjusting the sweetness is crucial to balance the tartness of the berries. You can reduce the sugar or even replace it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup if you're looking for a healthier option.

Serving and Storage Tips

Once baked, let the casserole cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the custard to set further, making it easier to cut neat squares. For serving, a generous drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream elevates the dish, adding an extra layer of sweetness that complements the tart berries perfectly.

If you have leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This casserole reheats well; simply pop it into the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. For longer storage, consider freezing portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, which can last up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

1 loaf of brioche bread, sliced
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Butter (for greasing)

Make sure you have everything measured out for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your casserole:

Prepare the Casserole

Begin by greasing a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter. Arrange the slices of brioche in the dish, layering them slightly. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Pour the mixture evenly over the bread, making sure each slice is well-coated. Press down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid.

Add the Berries

Sprinkle the mixed berries over the soaked bread, pushing them slightly into the custard for maximum flavor.

Bake in the Oven

Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for at least an hour, or overnight. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the foil and bake for 40-45 minutes until puffed and golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Slice into squares and enjoy warm, perhaps with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream.

Serve hot and watch it disappear!

Pro Tips

Feel free to mix and match different berries or add nuts for extra crunch!

Ingredient Substitutions

While brioche bread is recommended for its rich taste, feel free to experiment with alternative breads to suit your preference or dietary needs. Whole wheat bread can offer a healthier option, providing fiber while still yielding a satisfying texture. Gluten-free bread can also work well, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious casserole without dietary restrictions.

If you're sensitive to dairy, consider using plant-based milk such as oat or soy milk, and opt for a dairy-free cream alternative to maintain the creaminess of the custard. The eggs are essential for binding; however, you can substitute flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan alternative without sacrificing texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your casserole comes out too soggy, it might be due to using overly soft bread or not allowing it to rest long enough before baking. Ensure that your bread is lightly stale, and allow it to soak in the custard mixture for at least one hour, or go for the overnight option for best results in flavor and texture.

On the other hand, if you find your casserole is too dry, this could be a result of overbaking. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time; it should be puffed, with a golden-brown top but still somewhat jiggly in the center. If it browns too quickly, tent it with foil to shield it from direct heat while it finishes cooking.

Flavor Variations

For a creative twist, consider adding flavors such as lemon zest or orange zest to the custard mixture. This brightens the profile and complements the berries beautifully. Additionally, you could fold in chocolate chips or nuts along with the berries for a richer texture and flavor experience.

If you want to change the berry variety, feel free to swap in seasonal fruits. Peaches, plums, or even apples can make delightful alternatives. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as denser fruits may require a longer baking period to soften and meld with the custard.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Yes! You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it to let the bread soak up the egg mixture.

→ What type of bread works best?

Brioche or challah works wonderfully due to their texture, but any thick bread will do.

→ Can I use frozen berries?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them and drain excess moisture before adding to the casserole.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use whole milk for a lighter version, but heavy cream gives a richer flavor.