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Creamy French Toast Casserole with Berries and Cream Cheese

creamy french toast casserole - featured image
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A rich and indulgent breakfast casserole featuring layers of thick-cut bread, cream cheese, and mixed berries soaked in a vanilla-cinnamon custard, perfect for cozy mornings or brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups thick-cut bread cubes (about 10–12 slices; brioche, challah, Texas toast, or sturdy white bread)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 ½ cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen; blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 ½ cups whole milk or half-and-half (2% milk for lighter version)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for greasing and dotting on top)

Instructions

  1. Cut bread into roughly 1-inch cubes and set aside. Slice softened cream cheese into thin discs or small dollops about ½-inch thick.
  2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Spread half the bread cubes evenly. Scatter half the cream cheese pieces over the bread, then sprinkle half the berries. Repeat layers with remaining bread, cream cheese, and berries.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined and slightly frothy.
  4. Slowly pour custard evenly over the layered bread, cream cheese, and berries. Press down lightly with a spatula to help bread soak up custard. Cover loosely and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove casserole from fridge and let come to room temperature for about 15 minutes. Dot top with small pats of butter if desired.
  6. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until top is golden brown and custard is set but slightly wobbly in center. A toothpick inserted near center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
  7. Let casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh berries or powdered sugar if desired and serve warm.

Notes

For best texture, soak casserole overnight. Use thick-cut bread like brioche or challah for best custard absorption. If using frozen berries, thaw and drain excess liquid to avoid sogginess. Let casserole cool before slicing to firm up. Reheat leftovers in oven to maintain texture; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast casserole, breakfast casserole, cream cheese, berries, brunch recipe, easy breakfast, baked French toast

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