French Toast Casserole

A cozy morning feeling is encapsulated in the aroma of freshly baked French toast casserole wafting through the house. This delightful dish combines the rich texture of brioche or challah bread with a creamy custard, creating a perfect balance of flavors and warmth. In just a short amount of time, you can prepare a satisfying breakfast that everyone will love.

This recipe is ideal for families, brunch gatherings, or even holiday breakfasts. Prepare it the night before for a hassle-free morning or store leftovers in the fridge for a quick reheating option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The soft, custardy texture perfectly contrasts with the fresh fruit topping.
• It can be made ahead and stored overnight for easy serving.
• The combination of eggs and milk creates a rich, flavorful base.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser that can easily feed a large group.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create this delicious casserole.

For the Casserole

• 1 loaf of bread, preferably brioche or challah, cubed
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Topping

• 1 cup strawberries, sliced
• 1 cup blueberries

For Greasing

• Butter for greasing

Brioche or challah adds the best flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use regular bread if preferred.
• Almond milk works as a dairy-free option.
• Honey can replace sugar.
• Any berries can be used for topping.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your casserole.

Grease

Start by greasing a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.

Cube

Cut the bread into cubes and place them in the baking dish.

Whisk

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until combined.

Pour

Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring they are well coated.

Top

Top with sliced strawberries and blueberries, distributing them evenly.

Refrigerate

Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.

Preheat

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown.

Serve

Serve warm for the best experience.

How to Store It

Fridge: 3-5 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave on low for 1-2 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Use day-old bread for a sturdier texture.
• Let the casserole sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
• Adjust the sweetness by altering the sugar amount based on taste.
• Experiment with different fruits for topping seasonally.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with whipped cream for added indulgence.
• Pair with maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
• Enhance with a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.