If you are on the hunt for a breakfast or brunch dish that brings a smile to everyone’s face, this Berries and Cream Stuffed French Toast Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine layers of soft brioche cubes bursting with a luscious cream cheese filling and bright, juicy mixed berries, all soaked in a rich, cinnamon-spiced custard before baking to golden perfection. This casserole offers the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, combined with a custardy texture that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s an irresistible dish that feels both elegant and comforting, making any morning feel special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role in creating a delightful taste and texture combination. From the rich cream cheese to the vibrant berries and the fragrant cinnamon, these simple but carefully chosen components come together beautifully.
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread: Chosen for its soft, buttery texture that soaks up custard perfectly without falling apart.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds rich creaminess that complements the berries and makes the filling dreamy.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Provides subtle sweetness to the cream cheese mixture for balanced flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the creamy filling.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious texture and richness in the cream cheese layer.
- 5 large eggs: The custard base that binds everything together and gives the casserole structure.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk: Lightens the custard while keeping it creamy and smooth.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard and enhances the berries’ natural flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy note that is classic in French toast dishes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and boosts all the flavors in the dish.
- 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries): Provide vibrant color, freshness, and a burst of juicy tartness.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Adds richness to the custard and helps achieve a golden top.
- Optional maple syrup and powdered sugar for serving: Perfect finishing touches for extra sweetness and presentation.
How to Make Berries and Cream Stuffed French Toast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Cream Cheese Layer
Begin by greasing a 9 by 13 inch baking dish so that nothing sticks and the casserole bakes evenly. Spread half of the brioche or challah cubes evenly across the bottom of the dish to create a sturdy base. In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until you achieve a perfectly smooth and creamy filling. Dollop this luscious mixture over the bread cubes, spreading it gently but evenly to create the first heavenly layer that will soak into the bread while baking.
Step 2: Add the Berries and Top with Bread
Next, sprinkle the mixed berries over the cream cheese layer, ensuring vibrant pops of red and blue dot the surface. These berries will add juicy bursts of flavor that cut through the richness. Cover the berries with the remaining bread cubes, creating a top layer that will be soaked by the custard and bake into a beautiful golden crust.
Step 3: Make and Pour the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter until well combined. This custard mixture is the magic that pulls all the layers together with its creamy, sweet, and slightly spiced notes. Pour the custard evenly over the bread and berries, pressing down lightly with a spatula so that the bread absorbs as much liquid as possible for the perfect custardy texture.
Step 4: Refrigerate and Bake
Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This resting period allows the custard to soak deeply into the bread, resulting in a moist and tender bake. When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the cover and bake the casserole uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes until it is puffed, set, and visibly golden on top. Let it cool slightly before serving so it holds its shape beautifully.
How to Serve Berries and Cream Stuffed French Toast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
This Berries and Cream Stuffed French Toast Casserole Recipe practically invites you to dress it up. A light dusting of powdered sugar lends a delicate sweetness and pretty finish, while a drizzle of warm maple syrup adds sticky, caramel notes that perfectly complement the tartness of the berries. Fresh extra berries on top can brighten the look and add freshness.
Side Dishes
Because this casserole is wonderfully rich and filling on its own, consider pairing it with light, fresh sides like crisp bacon or sausage links for a savory counterpoint. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can add some bright, acidic contrast and round out your brunch beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning brunch centerpiece, serve the casserole in the baking dish straight to the table and let everyone scoop their own portions. For an elegant touch, cut individual squares and arrange them on plates with a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone. You could even assemble mini casserole portions in ramekins for a charming personal presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover casserole, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It stays fresh up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for next-day breakfast or snacks.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. For the best results, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire baking dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing. It can last up to 2 months frozen without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes if reheating a whole dish, or 5-7 minutes for individual portions. You can also microwave slices for quicker reheating, but keep a close eye to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use different types of bread instead of brioche or challah?
Yes! While brioche or challah are preferred for their rich texture and flavor, you can use other soft breads like French bread or even sandwich bread. Just avoid extremely dense or crusty breads that won’t absorb the custard well.
Is it okay to use frozen berries?
Absolutely! Frozen berries work well and are convenient when fresh berries are out of season. Just be sure to thaw and drain them slightly to avoid excess moisture making the casserole soggy.
How long can I prep this casserole in advance?
You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance by assembling it and letting it soak in the custard overnight in the fridge. This actually improves the texture and flavor by allowing the bread to absorb the custard fully.
Can I add other fruits or nuts to this casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in fruits like peaches, apples, or bananas, or sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds for extra crunch. Just adjust the sweetness accordingly.
What makes this a Berries and Cream Stuffed French Toast Casserole Recipe instead of regular French toast?
The secret lies in the luscious cream cheese mixture nestled between layers of bread and berries, combined with the slow baking in a custard soak. This creates a creamy, indulgent texture and flavor unlike traditional French toast cooked in a pan.
Final Thoughts
There is something wonderfully comforting and impressive about a Berries and Cream Stuffed French Toast Casserole Recipe that’s baked to perfection and bursting with fresh flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a weekend brunch with friends or a special occasion breakfast, this dish is sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, take your time layering those berries and cream, and enjoy every delicious bite with those you love.
Print
Berries and Cream Stuffed French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Berries and Cream Stuffed French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast or brunch dish featuring soft brioche or challah bread cubes layered with a creamy sweetened cream cheese mixture and mixed berries, soaked in a cinnamon-spiced custard, then baked to golden perfection. It’s perfect for make-ahead meals and is sure to impress with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
Bread Base
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1 inch cubes
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
Custard Mixture
- 5 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Fruit Topping
- 2 cups mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
Optional Garnishes
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and to ensure easy serving.
- Layer bread cubes: Spread half of the brioche or challah bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating the first layer of the casserole.
- Make cream cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Assemble cream layer: Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the layer of bread cubes. Gently spread this mixture evenly to form a rich cream layer.
- Add berries and bread: Sprinkle the mixed berries evenly over the cream cheese layer, then top with the remaining bread cubes to create the final layer.
- Whisk custard: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and melted butter until fully combined and smooth.
- Pour custard over casserole: Carefully pour the custard mixture evenly over the assembled casserole. Press down gently on the bread cubes to help them absorb the custard liquid thoroughly.
- Refrigerate: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the bread to soak up the custard fully.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, set in the center, and lightly golden on top.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup for extra sweetness and flavor.
Notes
- This casserole works wonderfully as a make-ahead option for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.
- Feel free to use fresh or frozen mixed berries based on availability.
- For a flavor variation, substitute regular cream cheese with flavored cream cheese (such as strawberry or vanilla).
- Ensure the casserole is adequately chilled to help the bread absorb the custard for best texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
