Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole Recipe

There’s something absolutely magical about waking up to the sweet, inviting aroma of Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole wafting from the oven. Imagine thick cubes of French bread, creamy pockets of cream cheese, juicy strawberries, and a decadent custard all baked together into one gloriously fluffy breakfast treat. It’s comforting, crowd-pleasing, and the kind of dish that transforms any morning into a celebration—whether it’s a lazy weekend or a special family gathering.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the simple yet essential ingredients that make this dish a true standout. Each component adds its own sprinkle of magic, whether it’s the custardy richness, the tangy creaminess, or that fresh burst of berry flavor.

• French bread: The hearty, airy texture soaks up the custard beautifully without getting soggy.
• Fresh strawberries: These bring incredible color and juicy sweetness to every bite.
• Cream cheese: Creamy cubes melt perfectly for a luscious, cheesecake-like surprise.
• Large eggs: Act as the backbone of the custard, making the casserole rich and fluffy.
• Milk: Adds moisture and mild flavor to the custard base.
• Heavy cream: Dials up the creaminess for a truly decadent texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard without overpowering the berries.
• Brown sugar: Brings a hint of caramel warmth that pairs deliciously with strawberries.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses every layer with cozy, aromatic flavor.
• Ground cinnamon: Offers subtle spice that complements the sweet and creamy notes.
• Pinch of salt: Sharpens all the flavors and keeps the casserole from tasting flat.
• Powdered sugar: For a delicate dusting on top that looks gorgeous and tastes even better.
• Maple syrup: A classic finishing touch to pour over each warm, golden slice.

How to Make Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish

Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple step keeps everything from sticking, ensuring that every luscious layer of your Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole will lift out beautifully.

Step 2: Layer the Bread and Berries

Scatter half of your French bread cubes evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the cubed cream cheese over this first layer, and top it all with half of your fresh, sliced strawberries. Lay the remaining bread cubes and strawberries on top, creating a lovely stack of textures and flavors.

Step 3: Make the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, both sugars, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined—this is the creamy heart of your casserole that soaks into every morsel.

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

Gently pour the custard mixture over the bread and berries in the dish. Press down slightly with a spatula to help the liquid soak into the bread. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and texture.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the casserole out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 20–30 minutes—this helps it bake more evenly. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until the top is beautifully golden and the center is set.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Let the casserole cool just a bit, then dust generously with powdered sugar. Slice and drizzle with maple syrup for the ultimate morning treat. Your Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole is now ready to steal the show!

How to Serve Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole

Garnishes

Give your casserole a finishing flourish by showering it with powdered sugar, a sprinkle of extra fresh strawberries, and even a few mint leaves if you like. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of extra strawberry sauce will take it to dreamy new heights.

Side Dishes

Pair your Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole with crisp bacon, tangy Greek yogurt, or a bright fruit salad for an effortlessly balanced breakfast. A big mug of coffee or some fresh-squeezed orange juice rounds things out perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving a crowd, portion the casserole into squares and plate each with a few artful strawberry slices on top. For brunch parties, consider individual mini casseroles baked in ramekins—adorable, portable, and mess-free!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole tightly or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more as it sits, making tomorrow’s breakfast extra tasty.

Freezing

To freeze, cool the casserole completely, then wrap in plastic wrap and add a layer of foil. It keeps beautifully for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Warm slices in the microwave for a quick fix, or pop them in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through. A splash of milk before reheating helps revive that soft, custardy texture.

FAQs

Can I make this with different berries?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap the strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or a combination for a delicious mixed berry twist. Just keep the same proportions and enjoy a colorful variation.

What type Breakfast

French bread is ideal because it’s sturdy and soaks up the custard without becoming mushy, but brioche or challah are fantastic choices for an even richer result.

Can I assemble this ahead of time?

Yes—you can (and should!) assemble the Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole the night before. Letting it chill overnight means all the flavors meld, and your only job in the morning is to pop it in the oven.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Definitely! Substitute the milk and cream with your favorite non-dairy alternatives (like almond or oat milk), and use a dairy-free cream cheese. You’ll still get a lovely, satisfying casserole.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

No cream cheese? No worries. Try ricotta or mascarpone for a slightly different but still creamy effect, or omit it for a lighter take on this classic breakfast.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to impress at brunch or just treat your family to something special, you can’t go wrong with Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole. It’s a recipe that celebrates togetherness and those little moments of indulgence we all deserve—so go ahead, give it a spot in your breakfast rotation!

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