Berry French Toast Casserole: A Sweet & Cozy Breakfast Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious, make-ahead breakfast that’s perfect for special occasions, this Berry French Toast Casserole is a must-try! With soft, custardy bread, juicy mixed berries, and a golden, crispy topping, this French toast casserole is an easy and impressive dish for a Christmas breakfast recipe, Christmas brunch, or even a Halloween fest gathering.

Whether you need a breakfast recipes casserole for a family gathering or just want a warm, comforting meal to start your day, this dish delivers sweet, fruity, and cinnamon-spiced goodness in every bite.

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What Is Berry French Toast Casserole?

This toast casserole is a baked version of classic French toast, featuring chunks of bread soaked in a rich custard mixture, layered with berries, and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s like a mix between French toast, bread pudding, and a berry cobbler—soft, sweet, and absolutely delicious!

Ideal for Christmas breakfast, Christmas brunch, or any festive occasion, this casserole is easy to prepare ahead of time and perfect for serving a crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
• Soft, Custardy, & Sweet: A cross between French toast and bread pudding.
• Perfect for Holidays & Gatherings: Great for Christmas breakfast, brunch, or special mornings.
• Customizable: Use different berries, breads, or toppings to make it your own.
• Easy to Bake & Serve: No flipping individual French toasts—just bake and enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

• 1 loaf brioche or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
• ½ cup heavy cream (for a creamy texture)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Streusel Topping:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

Optional Toppings:

• Powdered sugar
• Maple syrup
• Whipped cream
• Extra fresh berries

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish (for baking the casserole)
• Mixing bowls (for custard and streusel topping)
• Whisk or electric mixer (for smooth custard mixing)
• Knife & cutting board (for bread and berries prep)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread & Berries

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Spread cubed bread evenly in the baking dish.
3. Sprinkle mixed berries over the bread, distributing them evenly.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
2. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, making sure all pieces are soaked.
3. Gently press down with a spoon to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid.

Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Cut in the softened butter using a fork or fingers until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
3. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

Step 4: Chill or Bake

• For Overnight Prep: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
• For Immediate Baking: Let the casserole sit for 15–20 minutes to absorb the custard.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until golden brown and the center is set.
3. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup.
2. Add whipped cream and fresh berries for extra indulgence.

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Tips for the Best Berry French Toast Casserole

• Use day-old bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better.
• Let it soak overnight: This enhances flavor and texture.
• Don’t overbake: The casserole should be soft and custardy inside, crispy on top.
• Try different berries: Raspberries, blackberries, or even dried cranberries work great.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using fresh bread: This can make the casserole too soggy.
• Skipping the chilling step: Letting the bread soak ensures full flavor.
• Overloading with berries: Too many can release excess liquid and make the casserole mushy.

Variations & Flavor Twists

• Chocolate Berry French Toast: Add chocolate chips between the bread layers.
• Lemon Berry French Toast: Add lemon zest and a lemon glaze on top.
• Pumpkin Spice Version: Use pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a fall twist.
• Nutty Crunch Topping: Mix in chopped pecans or almonds with the streusel.

How to Store & Make Ahead

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months—thaw and reheat in the oven.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes or microwave individual slices.

Serving Suggestions

This Berry French Toast Casserole pairs well with:

• A side of crispy bacon or sausage (for a savory balance)
• Fresh fruit salad (for extra brightness)
• A warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa
• Eggs or yogurt on the side for protein

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FAQs

Can I use frozen berries?

Yes! No need to thaw—just add them directly to the casserole.

What’s the best bread for this recipe?

Brioche, challah, or French bread work best for rich, custardy results.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use almond milk and dairy-free butter for a dairy-free version.

How do I prevent the casserole from getting soggy?

Use stale bread, don’t add too much liquid, and bake uncovered.

Conclusion

This Berry French Toast Casserole is a sweet, rich, and indulgent breakfast that’s perfect for Christmas breakfast, Christmas brunch, or any holiday gathering. Whether you’re making it for a Halloween fest, a cozy weekend brunch, or as part of your favorite breakfast recipes casserole, this dish is easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser!

Try this French toast casserole today and enjoy a warm, comforting, and berry-filled breakfast!

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