Simple & Irresistible Mixed Berry Cream French Toast Bake

There’s nothing quite like waking up to the comforting aroma of freshly baked French toast on a relaxed weekend morning. This Mixed Berry Cream French Toast Bake is perfect for cozy family breakfasts, a special holiday brunch, or even an elegant weekend treat for friends. The soft, custardy layers of bread soaked in a rich cream mixture paired with the sweet-tart burst of fresh berries make it irresistible. Inspired by the idea of combining classic French toast with a simple casserole format, this recipe transforms a traditional breakfast favorite into a shareable dish that can feed a crowd. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s an ideal dish for anyone looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of day-old brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 4 large eggs

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Optional Toppings:

• Powdered sugar for dusting

• Maple syrup

• Extra fresh berries for serving

Directions

1. Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray. Properly preparing your dish is key to preventing sticking and ensuring that the French toast bake comes out cleanly when sliced. Butter adds a subtle flavor and helps create a lightly crisp edge along the sides. If you prefer, you can line the dish with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easier removal. This extra step is especially useful if you plan to serve the bake as a centerpiece for a brunch or holiday breakfast, giving you a clean, elegant presentation.

2. Assemble the Bread Base

Begin by arranging half of the cubed brioche in an even layer at the bottom of your prepared dish. Brioche works wonderfully because its soft, slightly sweet texture absorbs the custard without falling apart. Next, add half of the cream cheese in small dollops across the bread. Use your fingers or a spoon to break the cream cheese into smaller pieces for even distribution. This ensures that every bite has pockets of creamy richness.

Sprinkle half of the mixed berries over the bread and cream cheese layer. The combination of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries provides a vibrant color contrast and bursts of fruity flavor. Repeat this layering process with the remaining bread cubes, cream cheese, and berries. Take care to distribute the ingredients evenly so that each slice will have a balanced mix of custard-soaked bread, cream cheese, and berries. Layering properly also helps the bake cook evenly, preventing dense spots in the center.

3. Mix the Custard

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth. The custard is the heart of the French toast bake, providing the creamy texture that makes this dish so irresistible. Take your time to ensure that the mixture is fully combined; you want a uniform custard so that each bread cube absorbs the same richness. For extra flavor, you can add a small pinch of nutmeg or a teaspoon of lemon zest at this stage, which adds a subtle warmth or brightness to the bake.

4. Pour Custard Over Bread

Slowly pour the custard mixture over the layered bread, berries, and cream cheese, ensuring that the liquid seeps into all the nooks and crannies. Use a spatula to gently press down on the bread cubes, helping them absorb the custard fully. This step is essential for achieving that soft, custardy texture throughout the bake. Once poured, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For best results, soak the mixture overnight. This extended soak allows the bread to absorb maximum custard, resulting in a tender, flavorful French toast bake with creamy, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.

5. Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and melted butter until smooth. This topping will form a slightly caramelized, golden crust as the bake cooks, adding a sweet crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft custard inside. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the soaked bread just before baking. If you want to add an extra touch, you can fold in a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of finely chopped nuts for texture and flavor.

6. Bake the French Toast

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap or foil and place the baking dish in the oven. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the custard is fully set and the top is golden brown. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean, indicating the custard is cooked through. During baking, the aroma of sweet berries, cream cheese, and vanilla will fill your kitchen, creating an irresistible anticipation for your guests. For a slightly crispier top, you can broil the French toast bake for 1–2 minutes at the very end—just keep a close eye to avoid burning.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Allow the French toast bake to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This brief resting period helps the custard set and makes serving easier. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a classic, elegant touch, drizzle with maple syrup for extra sweetness, and add additional fresh berries for color and flavor. Each slice should reveal a beautiful layering of golden bread, creamy pockets of cream cheese, and vibrant berries. Serve warm to enjoy the full contrast of textures and flavors—the crisp edges, the soft custardy bread, the creamy cheese, and the sweet-tart berries all working together in perfect harmony. This dish is perfect for a family breakfast, weekend brunch, or special occasion and is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 2 hours soaking)

• Cook Time: 45–50 minutes

• Total Time: 2 hours 65 minutes (including soaking)

• Yield: 8–10 servings

Notes

• Bread Choice Matters: Day-old brioche or challah works best because it soaks up the custard without becoming mushy. You can substitute with other soft bread if needed, but avoid very dense bread.

• Berry Variations: Feel free to mix and match berries based on seasonality. Fresh berries are ideal, but frozen berries work as well—just thaw and drain them slightly before use.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: The soak can be done the night before, making this French toast bake ideal for holiday mornings or brunch gatherings.

• Serving Ideas: Pair with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added texture and flavor.

• Storage: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for 10–15 minutes to restore the golden crust.

Why This Recipe Works

This Mixed Berry Cream French Toast Bake combines the best elements of classic French toast and a fruit-filled dessert casserole. The custard-soaked bread absorbs the creamy mixture, creating a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The cream cheese adds a tangy richness that pairs beautifully with the sweet berries. Baking instead of frying allows you to make a large batch with minimal effort while achieving a golden, slightly crisp top. This recipe is also highly adaptable, allowing for seasonal fruits, different spices, or even a touch of citrus zest for extra brightness.

Tips for Perfect French Toast Bake

1. Soak the Bread Properly: For the creamiest results, let the bread soak in the custard overnight. This ensures the custard penetrates every piece for a uniform texture.

2. Cut Uniform Cubes: Evenly sized bread cubes ensure the bake cooks consistently.

3. Layer Creatively: Alternate berries and cream cheese throughout the layers to create pockets of flavor in every bite.

4. Check for Doneness: The center should be custardy but set. Avoid overbaking, which can dry out the French toast.

5. Enhance the Flavor: A pinch of nutmeg or lemon zest in the custard can add a subtle but delightful flavor boost.

Serving Suggestions

This French toast bake is versatile and can be served in many ways:

• Family Breakfast: Slice and serve with maple syrup and extra berries for a simple, crowd-pleasing breakfast.

• Holiday Brunch: Pair with fresh orange juice, coffee, or a light fruit salad for a festive spread.

• Dessert Option: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a brunch-meets-dessert twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen berries?
Yes, frozen berries can be used. Make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy bake.

2. Can I make this recipe the night before?
Absolutely. In fact, letting the bread soak overnight enhances the custard’s flavor and texture. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake in the morning.

3. Can I use a different type of bread?
While brioche or challah is recommended for its soft, slightly sweet texture, you can also use French bread or sandwich bread. Avoid very dense bread, as it may not absorb the custard as well.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover French toast bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10–15 minutes to bring back the golden crust.

This Mixed Berry Cream French Toast Bake is more than just breakfast—it’s a way to start the day with something special, shareable, and utterly delicious. Its combination of creamy custard, rich cream cheese, and fresh berries makes it a memorable treat for family and friends alike. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a brunch, or simply want a cozy weekend morning indulgence, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Simple & Irresistible Mixed Berry Cream French Toast Bake

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 2 hours 65 minutes (including soaking)
• Yield: 8–10 servings 1x

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Description

There’s nothing better than starting a weekend morning with the comforting aroma of a warm, custardy French toast bake. This Mixed Berry Cream French Toast Bake is perfect for cozy family breakfasts, a festive holiday brunch, or an elegant treat for friends. Soft brioche cubes soak up a rich custard, layered with pockets of cream cheese and sweet-tart berries, creating a dish that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. Inspired by classic French toast, this recipe transforms a beloved breakfast into a make-ahead casserole that’s easy to share, making it ideal for any special occasion or leisurely morning.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 loaf day-old brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 4 large eggs

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Optional Toppings:

• Powdered sugar for dusting

• Maple syrup

• Extra fresh berries for serving

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Instructions

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Optionally, line with parchment paper for easier removal.

• Spread half of the bread cubes in the prepared dish. Dot with half the cream cheese, breaking into small chunks. Sprinkle half the berries over the top. Repeat with remaining bread, cream cheese, and berries to create layers.

• In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. Optionally, add a pinch of nutmeg or lemon zest for extra flavor.

• Slowly pour the custard over the layered bread, pressing down lightly to help the bread absorb the liquid. Cover with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

• In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the soaked bread just before baking to create a caramelized crust.

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove cover and bake 45–50 minutes, or until custard is set and top is golden brown. Test doneness with a toothpick in the center.

• Allow to cool 5–10 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and top with extra berries. Serve warm.

Notes

• • Use day-old brioche or challah for best texture.

  • Frozen berries can be used if thawed and drained.

  • Make-ahead overnight soaking enhances flavor and custardy texture.

  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 3 days; reheat in oven for best results.

  • Optional: add nutmeg, lemon zest, or chopped nuts to custard or topping for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 2 hours soaking)
• Cook Time: 45–50 minutes

Michelle Davis