Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole: A Sweet Morning Indulgence

There’s something magical about waking up to the irresistible aroma of warm, buttery French toast baking in the oven. Strawberries & cream French toast casserole takes this breakfast classic to a whole new level by combining rich cream cheese, sweet strawberry jam, and fluffy challah or brioche bread into one delightful dish. Perfect for brunches, family gatherings, or even a lazy Sunday morning, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole

This casserole is more than just a breakfast—it’s a celebration of comfort and flavor. It’s creamy, sweet, and satisfying, with bursts of fresh strawberries in every bite. Plus, you can prepare it ahead of time, making your mornings as stress-free as they are delicious.

Ingredients for Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

For the Macerated Strawberries

Ingredient	Quantity
Strawberries (hulled, quartered)	1 pound (1 pint)
Granulated sugar	3 tablespoons
Freshly squeezed lemon juice	1 teaspoon

For the Casserole

Ingredient	Quantity
Challah or brioche bread (cubed)	1 loaf (16 ounces)
Cooking spray	As needed
Cream cheese (cold, cubed)	8 ounces
Strawberry jam	1 cup, divided
Large eggs	6
Half-and-half	2 cups
Granulated sugar	1/4 cup
Pure vanilla extract	1 tablespoon
Salt	1/4 teaspoon
Powdered sugar (for serving)	As needed

Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole

1. Prepare the Macerated Strawberries

• Combine the strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Stir until the berries are well coated.
• Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to let the flavors meld.

2. Toast the Bread

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed bread in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Toast for about 10 minutes, or until the cubes are slightly dry and lightly golden-brown. Let them cool.

3. Assemble the Casserole

• Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
• Add half of the toasted bread cubes to the dish, spreading them evenly.
• Scatter the cubed cream cheese over the bread, followed by dollops of half the strawberry jam.
• Add the remaining bread cubes in an even layer.

4. Make the Custard

• In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
• Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid.
• Add the remaining strawberry jam in small dollops over the top.

5. Refrigerate the Casserole

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight. This step allows the bread to soak up the custard fully.

6. Bake the Casserole

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven heats.
• Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the casserole is set, puffed, and golden brown on top.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Let the casserole cool for at least 5 minutes. Spoon the macerated strawberries evenly over the top.
• Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.

What Makes Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole Special?

1. Bursting with Flavor: Fresh strawberries, creamy custard, and tangy cream cheese create a harmonious balance.
2. Perfect for Crowds: This casserole is large enough to feed a group, making it ideal for gatherings.
3. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the night before for a stress-free morning.
4. Customizable: Easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~320 kcal
Protein	8g
Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	20g

Creative Variations for Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole

1. Berry Medley Casserole

Replace half the strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a colorful twist.

2. Chocolate Lover’s Version

Add a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips between the bread layers for a touch of decadence.

3. Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free bread to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

4. Citrus Burst

Zest an orange or lemon into the custard for a bright, citrusy flavor.

5. Vegan-Friendly Casserole

Substitute plant-based milk, cream cheese, and egg alternatives for a dairy-free, vegan version.

Tips for the Best French Toast Casserole

1. Use Stale Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better, preventing a soggy casserole.
2. Don’t Skip the Refrigeration: Allowing the casserole to rest ensures the flavors meld and the custard sets.
3. Adjust the Sweetness: Taste the macerated strawberries and custard mixture to tweak the sugar levels if needed.
4. Serve Warm: This casserole is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
5. Garnish Creatively: Add whipped cream, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra flair.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole

• As a Standalone Dish: This casserole is filling enough to be the star of your breakfast or brunch.
• With Savory Sides: Pair with scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage for a balanced meal.
• As a Dessert: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of powdered sugar.
• For a Holiday Brunch: Include this dish in a festive spread alongside quiche and fresh fruit.

FAQs About Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole

1. Can I make this casserole without cream cheese?
Yes, you can leave out the cream cheese or replace it with mascarpone for a lighter texture.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Cover the casserole tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

4. Can I use pre-sliced bread?
Yes, but thicker bread like brioche or challah works best for absorbing the custard.

5. How do I prevent the custard from being too soggy?
Ensure your bread is slightly dry or toasted, and don’t skip the resting time before baking.

6. Can I add nuts for extra crunch?
Certainly! Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the top before baking for added texture.

Why Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole Is Worth Trying

This casserole combines the nostalgia of classic French toast with the elegance of strawberries and cream. It’s the perfect way to impress guests or add a touch of indulgence to your morning routine. With its balance of sweetness, richness, and freshness, this dish will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.

Conclusion: Make Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole Today

Are you ready to elevate your breakfast game? Strawberries & cream French toast casserole is a foolproof way to delight your taste buds and those of your loved ones. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a sweet, satisfying start to your day!

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