If you’re looking to impress brunch guests or simply treat yourself to a decadent morning delight, this French Toast Casserole with Fresh Berries and Cream Cheese Drizzle Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender cubes of bread soaked in a rich custard, baked to golden perfection, topped with a vibrant mix of fresh berries, crunchy almonds, and a luscious cream cheese drizzle that ties every bite together in comforting harmony. It’s the kind of recipe that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat, promising a cozy, flavorful experience with every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things straightforward with simple ingredients that come together to create an unbeatable combination of textures and flavors. Each component plays a crucial role, from the custardy bread base to the fresh, juicy burst of berries and the silky cream cheese topping.
- Bread loaf, cut into 1-inch squares: Use a sturdy bread like brioche or challah for the best custard absorption without getting soggy.
- 7 large eggs: These bind everything together and create the custard base that gives the dish its richness.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture to the custard mixture.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard just enough to balance the berries and cream cheese drizzle.
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream: Enhances the richness and tenderness of the casserole.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Gives a warm, aromatic depth that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings a cozy spice note that elevates the flavor profile.
- 2/3 cup sliced almonds: Adds delightful crunch and a nutty contrast to the soft bread.
- 16 oz fresh berries: A colorful and refreshing topping, choose a mix of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
- 2 tsp powdered sugar (optional, for dusting): A pretty finishing touch that adds a delicate sweetness.
- 2 oz cream cheese (room temperature): The base for the drizzle that adds tang and creaminess.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese drizzle perfectly.
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the drizzle’s flavor.
- 2 1/2 Tbsp whole milk: Adjusts the consistency of the drizzle for easy pouring.
How to Make French Toast Casserole with Fresh Berries and Cream Cheese Drizzle Recipe
Step 1: Whisk the Custard Mixture
Start by combining your eggs, whole milk, heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Whisk them all together until the sugar dissolves and the mixture looks smooth and velvety. This custard forms the flavorful soak for your bread, infusing each piece with that irresistible rich sweetness.
Step 2: Add Bread Cubes and Soak
Cube your bread into about 1-inch pieces and gently fold them into the custard mixture. Give it a little time so the bread absorbs all those creamy, spiced flavors, turning soft but not mushy. Then transfer everything to a buttered 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading the soaked bread out evenly.
Step 3: Arrange and Pour Remaining Custard
Pour any leftover custard over the bread cubes to ensure a consistent moistness throughout the casserole. Use a spatula or your hands to gently press down the bread cubes so they’re evenly distributed, ensuring this French Toast Casserole with Fresh Berries and Cream Cheese Drizzle Recipe bakes uniformly.
Step 4: Add Almonds and Bake
Sprinkle sliced almonds generously over the top—this little nutty touch will bring an amazing crunch after baking. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes, then remove the cover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is just irresistible.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Drizzle
While the casserole is baking, get your cream cheese drizzle ready. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and whole milk. Continue beating until the mixture reaches a thick but pourable consistency. This drizzle will add a luscious creaminess that perfectly contrasts the fruity freshness and the cozy cinnamon bread.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it cool slightly. Top generously with fresh berries that bring brightness and natural sweetness. Finally, use a teaspoon to artistically drizzle the cream cheese mixture over the top. This French Toast Casserole with Fresh Berries and Cream Cheese Drizzle Recipe is now ready to wow your taste buds.
How to Serve French Toast Casserole with Fresh Berries and Cream Cheese Drizzle Recipe
Garnishes
For a picture-perfect finish, dust the top of your casserole lightly with powdered sugar. You can also add a few fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a subtle refreshing flavor that complements the berries beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like crispy bacon or sausage to add a savory contrast. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also balances the richness, turning your brunch into a well-rounded feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, consider serving individual portions in mini ramekins topped with the berry and cream cheese drizzle. Alternatively, layer the casserole with berries inside a clear trifle dish for a stunning visual effect that invites compliments before the first bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any extra French Toast Casserole with Fresh Berries and Cream Cheese Drizzle Recipe covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out. The flavors blend even more after resting, so leftovers taste fantastic.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. The berries and cream cheese drizzle should be added fresh when serving for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or warm the whole casserole covered at 325°F for about 15 minutes until heated through. Reapply a bit of cream cheese drizzle and fresh berries to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven magic.
FAQs
Can I use frozen berries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen berries can be used if fresh are not available. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture from making the casserole soggy.
What bread works best for French toast casserole?
Sturdy breads like brioche, challah, or a thick white sandwich loaf work best as they soak up the custard without falling apart during baking.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk, and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the drizzle.
How far ahead can I assemble the casserole?
You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Baking it fresh the next morning yields the best texture and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Definitely! This French Toast Casserole with Fresh Berries and Cream Cheese Drizzle Recipe serves 8 to 10 people, making it perfect for brunch parties or weekend family breakfasts.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting and joyful about gathering around a warm dish that’s as delicious as this French Toast Casserole with Fresh Berries and Cream Cheese Drizzle Recipe. Whether it’s a special occasion or a slow weekend morning, this casserole delivers all the flavors you crave, with a fresh and creamy twist that’s hard to resist. I encourage you to try it soon, share it generously, and savor every luscious bite.
Print
French Toast Casserole with Fresh Berries and Cream Cheese Drizzle Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This French Toast Casserole is a delightful, crowd-pleasing breakfast dish featuring cubes of bread soaked in a rich custard blend of eggs, milk, cream, cinnamon, and vanilla. Topped with sliced almonds for a crunchy finish and baked to golden perfection, it’s served with fresh berries and a luscious cream cheese drizzle, making it perfect for brunch or special occasions.
Ingredients
French Toast Casserole
- 1 bread loaf (cut into 1-inch squares)
- 7 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2/3 cup sliced almonds
- 16 oz fresh berries
- 2 tsp powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Cream Cheese Drizzle
- 2 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ Tbsp whole milk
Instructions
- Prepare custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and granulated sugar until well combined and smooth.
- Soak the bread: Cut the bread loaf into 1-inch cubes and add them to the egg mixture. Stir gently to make sure all bread pieces are generously soaked with custard, then transfer everything into a 9×13 inch casserole baking dish.
- Arrange the bread: Pour any remaining egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes and arrange them so they are spread uniformly in the dish. Pat down gently if needed for even layering.
- Add almonds and bake: Sprinkle the top of the casserole with sliced almonds. Cover the dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350ËšF (175ËšC) for 20 minutes. Then uncover and continue baking another 15-20 minutes until the tops of the bread cubes become golden and crispy.
- Make cream cheese drizzle: While the casserole bakes, beat the room temperature cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and whole milk to the cream cheese and beat until the mixture is thick but drizzling in consistency.
- Serve: When the casserole is done, top it with fresh berries. Use a teaspoon to drizzle the prepared cream cheese mixture over each serving. Optionally, sprinkle with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Notes
- Use sturdy bread like brioche or challah for best texture and soaking ability.
- Allow bread to soak thoroughly in the custard mixture for optimal custardy softness inside.
- Almonds add a nice crunch but can be omitted for nut allergies.
- This dish can be assembled the night before, refrigerated overnight, then baked in the morning for convenience.
- Fresh berries can be substituted with thawed frozen berries if out of season.
- Adjust sugar amount to taste or substitute with a sugar alternative for a lower-sugar version.
