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Sweet, Tangy & Perfectly Make-Ahead
This Berry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is the ultimate sweet brunch dish—rich cubes of bread layered with pockets of creamy cheesecake and a burst of berries in every bite. It’s soaked overnight in a vanilla egg custard, then baked until golden and puffed. Whether you’re hosting brunch, meal prepping breakfast, or treating your family on the weekend, this overnight casserole is a showstopper.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 (16 oz) loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (day-old preferred)
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 1/2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen): blueberries, raspberries, blackberries
- 6 large eggs
- 1 3/4 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
For the Topping (optional):
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
1. Prep the Bread & Filling
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the bread cubes evenly in the dish. Distribute the cream cheese cubes and half of the berries over the bread. Top with the remaining bread and berries.
2. Make the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, maple syrup, vanilla, and cinnamon. Pour evenly over the bread mixture, pressing lightly to soak the top layer.
3. Chill Overnight
Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 6 hours) to allow the custard to absorb.
4. Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove casserole from fridge and let it sit at room temp for 20 minutes. If using the topping, mix sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle over the top. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.
5. Serve
Let cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Optionally serve with additional maple syrup or whipped cream.
Tips & Variations
- Berry options: Use any combo of blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, or chopped strawberries.
- Bread swaps: Croissants or French bread can be used for a richer or firmer base.
- Make it nutty: Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or almonds before baking for a crunch.
Nutrition Overview (Estimated per serving, serves 8–10)
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 9g
- Carbs: 34g
- Fat: 21g
- Sugar: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or 325°F oven until heated through.
How to Scale It Up
For a larger crowd, double the ingredients and use a deep roasting pan. Add 10–15 minutes to the bake time, and tent with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Final Thoughts
This Berry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole brings together creamy, fruity, and sweet in one irresistible dish. It’s make-ahead friendly, gorgeous enough for a special occasion, and easy enough for a cozy weekend breakfast.
Looking for more easy make-ahead breakfast ideas to feed your family or wow your brunch guests? This breakfast casserole recipe is just one of 12 crowd-pleasing make-ahead breakfast casseroles featured in our full roundup.
From cheesy sausage bakes to sweet French toast casseroles, each recipe is designed to be prepped ahead and baked fresh in the morning—perfect for holidays, weekends, or meal prep.
Browse all 12 make-ahead breakfast casseroles here:
https://divahomeinspiration.com/12-make-ahead-breakfast-casseroles-to-feed-a-crowd/
