Why You’ll Love Berry French Toast CasseroleRecipe
This casserole is the perfect make-ahead breakfast for holidays, weekends, or any time you want something indulgent without the stress of morning prep. Its combination of sweet berries, warm spices, and creamy baked custard creates a cozy, satisfying dish that’s easy to serve and even easier to enjoy. You’ll appreciate the minimal hands-on time, the simple ingredients, and the flexibility to customize with your favorite berries or toppings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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12-14 cups French bread, cubed
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8 large eggs
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2 cups 2% milk
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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2/3 cup brown sugar
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1 cup sliced strawberries
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1/2 cup blueberries
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1-2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
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Maple syrup (for serving)
Directions
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Grease a 9″x13″ casserole dish with vegetable oil or butter.
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Add cubed French bread to the dish, filling it about three-quarters full.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and brown sugar until smooth.
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Pour the mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure every piece is coated.
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Scatter sliced strawberries and blueberries over the top.
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Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Remove the wrap and bake for 35-50 minutes. Begin checking at 35 minutes; the casserole is ready when the top is golden and the center is set.
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Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
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Serve warm with maple syrup.
Servings and timing
Servings: 12
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-50 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 50 minutes (including refrigeration)
Variations
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Mixed Berry Blend: Use a combination of raspberries, blackberries, and cherries along with the strawberries and blueberries.
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Cream Cheese Swirl: Add dollops of sweetened cream cheese between layers for extra richness.
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Nut Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top before baking for a crunchy contrast.
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Citrus Zest: Add a touch of lemon or orange zest to the egg mixture for a bright flavor twist.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free bread in place of French bread.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 30–60 seconds, or reheat the entire casserole in a 325°F oven covered with foil until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
FAQs
How far in advance can I prepare this casserole?
You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Can I freeze Berry French Toast Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
What kind of bread works best for this recipe?
Day-old or slightly stale French bread works best as it absorbs the egg mixture without getting soggy.
Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen berries. Do not thaw them before adding to prevent excess moisture.
Is this recipe sweet enough without syrup?
The casserole is moderately sweet thanks to the brown sugar and berries, but maple syrup adds a perfect finishing touch.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use your favorite plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and ensure the bread is dairy-free.
What’s the best way to keep it warm for a brunch buffet?
After baking, cover the dish with foil and keep it in a 200°F oven until ready to serve.
How do I know when it’s fully baked?
The top should be golden and the center should feel firm and set. A knife inserted should come out mostly clean.
Can I add other flavors like nutmeg or cloves?
Absolutely. A pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves can add warmth and depth to the flavor.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the brown sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute to suit your dietary needs.
Conclusion
Berry French Toast Casserole is a wonderful way to enjoy a comforting, flavorful breakfast without the hassle of cooking individual slices. With its make-ahead convenience and versatility, it’s perfect for everything from lazy weekend mornings to festive family brunches. Whether you stick to the classic version or try a variation, it’s sure to become a breakfast favorite.
