Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole

Name: Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf of French bread (cubed); 4 large eggs; 2 cups of milk; 1 cup of heavy cream; 1/2 cup of granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon; 2 cups of fresh strawberries (sliced); Butter (for greasing the casserole dish)

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: February 7, 2026

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Introduction to Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole

Ah, the joy of waking up to a delightful breakfast! There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that feels both indulgent and homey. My Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole is just that—a dish that will make your mornings feel a little more special. Perfect for busy weekends or casual brunches, this casserole combines layers of soft, buttery bread with the sweetness of fresh strawberries and a rich, creamy custard. It’s easy to prepare and bake, allowing you to spend quality time with loved ones while it bakes. Trust me; you’ll want to make this a family tradition!

Why You’ll Love This Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole

This Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole is the answer to those busy mornings when time is tight, yet you want something delicious. It’s a one-dish wonder, saving you from a chaotic kitchen. Plus, the combination of creamy custard and fresh strawberries is pure bliss. What’s better? You can prepare it the night before. Just pop it in the oven in the morning, and you’re golden!

Ingredients for Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole

1 loaf of French bread (cubed)
4 large eggs
2 cups of milk
1 cup of heavy cream
1/2 cup of granulated sugar
1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
2 cups of fresh strawberries (sliced)
Butter (for greasing the casserole dish)

How to Make Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole

Prepare the Bread

Start by cubing your loaf of French bread into bite-sized pieces. I find that about one-inch cubes work best. This allows the bread to soak up the custard while still holding its shape. Place the cubes evenly in a well-greased casserole dish, creating a cozy, buttery bed for all that deliciousness to come.

Make the Custard

Next, let’s whip up the custard! In a large bowl, combine the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Using a whisk, blend these ingredients until everything is well incorporated. The aroma of vanilla mingling with the cinnamon is simply divine—this is the secret to a breakfast that feels like a warm hug!

Combine and Soak

Now it’s time to bring the custard and bread together. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cubed bread, ensuring that every piece gets its fair share. With a spatula, gently press down on the bread cubes to encourage them to soak up the custard. Don’t skimp on this step—proper soaking is what transforms the casserole into a creamy masterpiece. Top it off with those luscious sliced strawberries, artfully placing them for a pop of color.

Refrigerate

Cover your casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap and slip it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This waiting period is crucial; it allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a dish that’s wonderfully tender and flavorful. If you’re short on time, let it soak while you brew your coffee!

Preheat Oven

As the soaking time draws to a close, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is vital; it ensures even cooking throughout the casserole, allowing that custard to set perfectly. You want a golden crust on the outside and a creamy center. Trust me, your future self will thank you for this step!

Bake

Remove the plastic wrap carefully, and place your casserole in the oven. Bake for approximately 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As the casserole bakes, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that will pull everyone into the room!

Serve

Once baked, let your Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole cool for a few moments. Serve it warm, and here’s a little secret: drizzle with pure maple syrup and a light dusting of powdered sugar for that perfect touch. Your family will savor every bite, proving that breakfast can be both indulgent and easy!

Tips for Success

Use day-old French bread for best absorption.
Feel free to experiment with spices—nutmeg works wonderfully, too!

For a crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before baking.
Keep it covered while baking for a tender texture.
Let it rest for 10 minutes after baking for easy slicing.

Equipment Needed

Casserole dish (9×13 inches) – A glass or ceramic dish works great.
Mixing bowl – Any size that holds all your custard ingredients.
Whisk – A fork can work in a pinch if you don’t have one.

Spatula – Use this for gently pressing down the bread.
Plastic wrap – To cover during refrigeration.

Variations

Add 1 cup of chocolate chips for a rich twist your kids will love.
Substitute almond milk for a dairy-free option.
Incorporate sliced bananas for a delightful flavor combination.
Use whole wheat bread for a healthier choice.
Sprinkle in some nutmeg or cardamom for a warm, spiced aroma.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with fresh orange juice or a frothy cappuccino for a delightful morning treat.
Serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage links for a hearty breakfast.
Add whipped cream on top for an extra indulgent touch.

Garnish with mint leaves for an elegant presentation.

FAQs about Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole

Can I make this casserole the night before?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend doing just that. Prepare everything up to the baking step and then cover it tightly. Let it chill overnight in the fridge, so the bread has time to soak up all that delicious custard. Just pop it in the oven in the morning!

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Certainly! Frozen strawberries can be a great option. Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid making the casserole too soggy. They’ll still add that lovely berry flavor!

Is it safe to eat leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just warm them in the oven or microwave before serving. You can also enjoy them cold for a quick treat!

What can I substitute if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, whole milk or half-and-half can work as a substitute, though it may alter the richness slightly. Remember, the goal is a creamy custard that envelops the bread!

Can I add other fruits to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorites, like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches. It’s a fun way to change up the flavor and use whatever you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

There’s a certain magic that happens when you gather around a warm plate of Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole. This dish transforms ordinary mornings into cherished moments, filled with laughter and love. Each creamy bite, featuring the sweetness of strawberries, creates a delightful experience that’s worth sharing with family and friends. I truly believe you’ll feel the joy of cooking in every layer. So, why not surprise your loved ones with this luscious casserole? I promise, it’ll become a beloved feature on your breakfast table!