There’s just something magical about waking up to the scent of vanilla, cinnamon, and a Berry French Toast Casserole bubbling in the oven. I made this Berry French Toast Casserole one quiet Sunday before church, and my whole family gathered around the table with sleepy eyes and full hearts. It’s soft, custardy, and full of juicy berries in every bite. Plus, you can make it the night before—no early morning whisking needed. It’s just the kind of breakfast that feels like a hug, especially in spring or summer when berries are at their sweetest.
Table of Contents
Berry French Toast Casserole Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf day-old French bread or brioche, cut into cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 cups mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
Optional Toppings & Serving Ideas
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Warm maple syrup
- Whipped cream or Greek yogurt
- Extra fresh berries on top
If you loved the sweet-and-savory layers in my Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole, you’ll adore this fruit-forward version too.
How to Make Berry French Toast Casserole
Step 1 – Prep the Bread and Berries
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cut your bread into 1-inch cubes and place half in the dish. Sprinkle half of the berries over the bread. Then, add the rest of the bread and top with remaining berries. This layering makes sure every scoop is berry-filled.
Step 2 – Make the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Add milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. Whisk until smooth. Pour the custard slowly over the bread and berries, pressing down gently to help it soak through.
Step 3 – Assemble and Chill Overnight
Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight. This step helps the bread absorb the custard, making every bite soft and flavorful.
Step 4 – Bake and Serve
In the morning, preheat the oven to 350°F. Take the casserole out while the oven heats. Remove the cover and bake for 45–50 minutes until golden and set in the center. Let it cool for 10 minutes. Dust your Berry French Toast Casserole with powdered sugar and serve with warm syrup.
Tips for the Best Results
For the best Berry French Toast Casserole, use day-old or slightly stale bread that holds up better and soaks in the custard without turning soggy. Make sure to grease your baking dish well—it makes cleanup much easier.
Ovens can vary, so start checking doneness at 45 minutes. The center should feel firm when gently pressed.
Letting it chill overnight really brings out the rich flavor and creamy texture.
Easy Variations and Substitutions
Switch the berries with what’s in season—raspberries, blackberries, or even chopped peaches work beautifully.
No brioche? Try croissants, sourdough, or whole wheat bread for a hearty twist.
Need a dairy-free version? Use almond or oat milk and skip the cream. It still bakes up rich and cozy.
And for those who love savory breakfasts, try my cheesy Breakfast Rolls filled with sausage and bacon.
FAQ
Why is my French toast casserole soggy?
If the bread is too soft or fresh, it can soak up too much liquid and lose structure. Use day-old bread and let the casserole rest before baking.
How long can I keep French toast casserole in the fridge?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
How to keep French toast casserole warm?
After baking, cover with foil and place in a warm oven (around 200°F) until ready to serve. Avoid drying it out by checking every 10–15 minutes.
What bread is best for French toast casserole?
French bread, brioche, or challah are all great options. Look for something slightly dense that can hold custard without turning mushy.
Berry French Toast Casserole Recipe Card
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Berry French Toast Casserole (Easy Make-Ahead Recipe)
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Berry French Toast Casserole is a cozy, make-ahead breakfast filled with juicy berries, soft custard-soaked bread, and warm cinnamon flavor.
Ingredients
1 loaf day-old French bread or brioche, cubed
6 large eggs
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 tsp cinnamon
2 cups mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
Butter or nonstick spray for greasing
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Maple syrup, whipped cream, or Greek yogurt for serving
Instructions
1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer half the bread cubes in the bottom.
2. Sprinkle half of the mixed berries over the bread.
3. Add the remaining bread and top with the rest of the berries.
4. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until smooth. Add milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. Whisk well.
5. Pour custard evenly over the bread mixture, pressing gently to soak.
6. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours).
7. Preheat oven to 350°F. Let casserole sit at room temperature while oven heats.
8. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until golden and set in the center.
9. Let cool 10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with syrup or toppings.
Notes
Use day-old or slightly stale bread for best texture.
Try different berry combos or swap in chopped peaches, cherries, or apples.
Dairy-free? Use almond or oat milk in place of milk and cream.
Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hosting brunch or just craving something cozy for Sunday morning, this Berry French Toast Casserole brings people together. It’s easy, make-ahead, and always gets smiles.
I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—leave a comment or rating after you try it. And for more breakfast inspiration, check out my full Breakfast Recipes collection or pin your favorites on Pinterest.
