Blueberry Strawberry French Toast Casserole

Blueberry Strawberry French Toast Casserole is a fruity, creamy, and custardy breakfast bake that’s perfect for weekend brunches, special occasions, or holiday mornings. Loaded with fresh strawberries and blueberries, rich cream cheese, and soft bread, it’s baked until golden and served with a warm berry sauce or maple syrup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make and perfect for prepping the night before
• Bursting with the natural sweetness and tartness of fresh berries
• Rich, custardy interior with a slightly crisp top
• A crowd-pleaser ideal for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings
• Versatile and easy to customize with different breads or fruits

Ingredients

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

• Day-old French or brioche bread, cubed
• Cream cheese, cut into small cubes
• Fresh blueberries
• Fresh strawberries, sliced
• Eggs
• Milk (whole, 2%, or dairy-free alternatives)
• Vanilla extract
• Maple syrup
• Granulated sugar
• Cornstarch (optional, for sauce)
• Butter

Directions

this recipe

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer half of the bread cubes at the bottom.
2. Add cream cheese and berries: Distribute cream cheese cubes, strawberries, and blueberries evenly over the bread. Top with the remaining bread cubes.
3. Prepare custard: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, and maple syrup until smooth.
4. Pour custard over bread: Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layered bread and berries, pressing lightly to help the bread soak it in.
5. Refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours) to allow the custard to fully absorb.
6. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake, covered with foil, for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set.
7. Optional berry sauce: In a saucepan, mix sugar, water, and cornstarch. Heat until thickened. Add blueberries, simmer until they break down slightly, then stir in butter.
8. Serve warm with the berry sauce or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55–60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (plus refrigeration time)

Variations

• Mixed Berry Option: Use any combination of berries like raspberries and blackberries.
• Cinnamon Swirl: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the custard for warmth.
• Nutty Crunch: Top with sliced almonds or chopped pecans before baking.
• Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual portions wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 30–45 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! It’s best when prepared the night before and refrigerated overnight before baking.

Can I use frozen berries?

Yes, but thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture.

What’s the best type of bread for this casserole?

Day-old French bread, brioche, or challah work great because they soak up the custard without getting soggy.

Can I skip the cream cheese?

Yes, but the cream cheese adds a creamy, tangy contrast that enhances the flavor.

How do I know it’s done baking?

The center should be set and the top golden brown. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Can I make a smaller batch?

Yes, halve the ingredients and bake in an 8×8-inch dish. Adjust baking time slightly.

Is this casserole very sweet?

It has a balanced sweetness. You can reduce the sugar or use more maple syrup to suit your taste.

Can I use plant-based milk?

Yes, almond, oat, or soy milk all work well as substitutes for dairy milk.

How can I make it more indulgent?

Add white chocolate chips or a streusel topping for an extra treat.

What toppings go well with it?

Try whipped cream, powdered sugar, berry sauce, or just classic maple syrup.

Conclusion

Blueberry Strawberry French Toast Casserole is the perfect make-ahead dish to brighten any morning with its vibrant berries, creamy texture, and warm, comforting flavor. Whether for a holiday brunch or a lazy weekend, it’s sure to impress your guests and bring everyone to the table.

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