Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole Recipe
There’s something magical about waking up to the aroma of a decadent, oven-baked treat, especially when it’s as dreamy as this Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole. Imagine layers of pillowy bread, luscious cream cheese, and juicy strawberries all snuggled together and baked until golden. This show-stopping brunch recipe takes classic French toast and transforms it into a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole that is as perfect for lazy weekends as it is for festive gatherings. If you love simple, make-ahead breakfasts that deliver on flavor, this one’s destined to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need for Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole are a handful of familiar ingredients. Each one has a special role: from the crusty bread soaking up that rich custard to the sweet strawberries that make every bite feel like a celebration. Here’s how these simple elements come together to create breakfast bliss.
- French bread (1 loaf, about 14 oz): Its sturdy crumb holds up perfectly during soaking and baking—brioche or challah are wonderful substitutes for an even more tender bite.
- Fresh strawberries (1 1/2 cups, sliced): The star fruit adds juicy bursts of flavor and beautiful color to the casserole.
- Cream cheese (1 package, 8 oz, softened): This magical ingredient creates pockets of tangy creaminess throughout the dish.
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Just enough sweetness to balance the tart berries and rich dairy.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavor with cozy, aromatic warmth—pure vanilla works best here.
- Large eggs (6): Eggs are the base of your custard, binding everything together and creating that classic French toast texture.
- Milk (2 cups): Whole milk lends richness but feel free to use 2% if you prefer a lighter bite.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds luxurious creaminess for an indulgent custard base.
- Maple syrup (1/4 cup): Infuses the casserole with gentle sweetness and a hint of caramel—pure maple produces the best results.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Brings gentle warmth and spice to every bite.
- Powdered sugar & extra strawberries (for topping): The finishing flourishes that make your Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole utterly irresistible when served.
How to Make Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish & Bread
Begin by generously greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Then grab your loaf of French bread and slice it into hearty 1-inch cubes. This is the foundation of your casserole and ensures every bite gets that custardy, golden finish.
Step 2: Layer the Bread and Cream Cheese Mixture
Scatter half of the bread cubes in an even layer across the bottom of your greased dish. In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until creamy and smooth. Drop dollops of this tangy-sweet mixture over your base layer of bread—don’t worry if it isn’t perfectly even. Next, blanket the whole layer with your sliced strawberries, distributing them with love and care. Finish this step by topping with the remaining bread cubes, completing your casserole’s layers.
Step 3: Make the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, and ground cinnamon until everything is beautifully combined. This luscious custard will seep into every nook and cranny, infusing the casserole with flavor and keeping it super moist.
Step 4: Soak the Bread
Now it’s time for the magic—slowly pour your custard mixture all over the assembled bread and berries, making sure to cover every inch. Gently press down with a spatula or the back of a spoon so the bread can soak up all that creamy goodness. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight is ideal for maximum flavor and easy morning prep.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the casserole from the fridge and uncover it. Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the top is golden and the center is set. Let it rest for about 10 minutes—this helps everything settle and slice cleanly.
Step 6: Add Toppings and Serve
Before serving, shower your Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole with a generous dusting of powdered sugar and a scatter of fresh strawberries. Each slice is ready to wow, perfectly sweet and bursting with berry flavor!
How to Serve Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole
Garnishes
A beautiful finishing touch goes a long way. Top your Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole with extra sliced strawberries and a flurry of powdered sugar. For added decadence, a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream works wonders. Fresh mint leaves bring a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Side Dishes
Balance the richness with savory brunch companions! This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp bacon, sausage links, or scrambled eggs. A platter of fresh fruit or a light green salad also adds contrast, making your breakfast or brunch spread complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole family-style in the baking dish for a casual, festive vibe. Or, cut it into tidy squares and arrange them on a platter for a visually stunning brunch table. For special occasions, you can even bake in individual ramekins for personalized portions that look oh-so-elegant.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover slices of Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole are a gift to future you! Store cooled pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s a treat that reheats beautifully for a speedy breakfast or indulgent snack.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this casserole! Simply let it cool completely, then wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to two months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm up leftovers in the microwave for a minute or two, or pop them in a 350°F oven until heated through. This brings back the texture and flavor, almost as if it were freshly baked!
FAQs
Can I assemble Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, allowing it to soak overnight enhances both the flavor and the texture. Just keep it covered in the fridge and bake it in the morning for a fuss-free breakfast.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen strawberries work in a pinch. Thaw them completely and drain off excess liquid before layering into the casserole to prevent sogginess.
What’s the best bread for this casserole?
Sturdy bread like French bread or sourdough yields a chewy, toothsome bite that won’t fall apart after soaking. Brioche or challah are also fantastic for a softer, sweeter twist.
Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole is vegetarian as written. For dairy-free needs, swap in plant-based milk and cream cheese, and be sure your bread fits your dietary requirements.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
When the top is deeply golden and the center feels set (not jiggly), it’s ready! If in doubt, insert a knife into the center—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a breakfast that’s as showstopping as it is simple, you can’t go wrong with Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole. It’s a go-to for busy mornings, brunch parties, or anytime you want to treat yourself and your loved ones. Give it a try—you might just fall for its berry-topped, creamy charm!
Print
Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus chill time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a delightful breakfast with this Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole. Layers of French bread, cream cheese, fresh strawberries, and a rich custard come together to create a decadent dish perfect for brunch or a special occasion.
Ingredients
French Toast:
- 1 loaf (about 14 oz) French bread (cut into 1-inch cubes)
Strawberry Cream Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese (softened)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Egg Custard:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Toppings:
- Powdered sugar
- Extra strawberries for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the French Toast: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread half of the bread cubes evenly in the bottom.
- Layer the Strawberry Cream: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the bread, then layer on the sliced strawberries.
- Finish Assembling: Cover with the remaining bread cubes.
- Make the Egg Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread. Gently press down to ensure all pieces are soaked.
- Chill and Bake: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center. Let cool for 10 minutes before topping with powdered sugar and extra strawberries.
Notes
- This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning.
- For a sweeter twist, use brioche or challah bread instead of French bread.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
