There’s nothing quite like waking up to the smell of a warm, sweet breakfast filling the kitchen. The Easy & Delicious Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole is the ultimate treat for a cozy weekend morning, a festive brunch, or a special family gathering. Imagine layers of buttery bread soaked in a luscious custard, baked to golden perfection, and topped with fresh, juicy strawberries and a drizzle of sweet cream. It’s indulgent yet simple, comforting yet elegant—a dish that brings smiles with every bite.
This recipe was inspired by the classic French toast you love but with a delightful twist that makes it perfect for sharing. It’s reminiscent of cherished brunch traditions and Sunday mornings filled with laughter, coffee, and a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday breakfast, Mother’s Day, or a leisurely summer brunch, this casserole is guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole
1. Perfect for Any Occasion
This casserole works beautifully for intimate breakfasts or large gatherings. Its make-ahead nature makes it ideal for busy mornings—you can prepare it the night before, refrigerate, and bake it fresh in the morning.
2. Bursting with Fresh Flavors
The combination of sweet, juicy strawberries and rich, creamy custard creates a harmonious flavor profile. The strawberries add a fresh, slightly tangy note that perfectly balances the richness of the cream and bread.
3. Customizable & Kid-Friendly
This recipe is versatile. Swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or a mixed berry medley. Add a handful of chocolate chips, toasted almonds, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a fun twist. It’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike.
4. Comfort in Every Bite
Golden, custardy, slightly crisp edges, and soft centers make this casserole a comfort food classic. Every spoonful feels like a warm hug, making it perfect for chilly mornings or special celebrations.
Ingredients
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1 loaf of day-old French bread, cubed
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2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
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8 large eggs
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2 cups whole milk
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
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Powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)
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Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Directions
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Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Cube the French bread into 1-inch pieces and spread them evenly in the prepared dish.
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Add Strawberries: Gently layer the sliced strawberries over the cubed bread. Set aside a few slices for garnish if desired.
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Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well combined.
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Combine Bread & Custard: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and strawberries, pressing lightly to ensure all bread cubes soak up the custard. Drizzle melted butter over the top for a golden finish.
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Soak Overnight (Optional): For a more custardy texture, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. If baking immediately, allow the bread to soak for at least 30 minutes before baking.
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Bake: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
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Cool Slightly & Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with reserved strawberries. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole
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Day-Old Bread is Key: Using slightly stale bread allows it to absorb the custard without becoming too mushy.
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Fresh Strawberries: Ripe, in-season strawberries provide the best flavor and natural sweetness.
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Make-Ahead Convenience: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning for an effortless brunch.
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Customize Your Toppings: Try adding sliced almonds, pecans, or a light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking for extra crunch and flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
While this casserole is undoubtedly indulgent, it also contains nutritious ingredients. Fresh strawberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, eggs provide high-quality protein, and milk and cream supply calcium for strong bones. By enjoying this dish in moderation, you can have a delicious breakfast that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
Creative Serving Ideas
1. Breakfast for a Crowd
This casserole is ideal for serving a group. Pair it with freshly brewed coffee, orange juice, or a smoothie bar for a complete brunch spread.
2. Elegant Brunch Option
Top each serving with a drizzle of homemade strawberry syrup or a few mint leaves for a visually stunning presentation.
3. Dessert Twist
This French toast casserole can double as a dessert. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
4. Fun Variations
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Mixed Berry Medley: Combine strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful version.
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Chocolate Lover’s: Sprinkle chocolate chips between layers of bread and strawberries before baking.
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Nutty Delight: Add a crunchy layer of toasted almonds or walnuts on top for texture.
Making It Instagram-Worthy
This casserole isn’t just delicious—it’s visually stunning. To make your creation picture-perfect:
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Arrange sliced strawberries neatly on top before baking.
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Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
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Serve in individual ramekins or slices for a charming presentation.
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Add a drizzle of whipped cream or a light berry sauce for an extra pop of color.
Sharing your brunch creation online can inspire friends and followers to try this decadent yet simple recipe.
Why This Recipe Works
The Easy & Delicious Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole is a triumph because it balances flavor, texture, and convenience. The soft, custardy interior contrasts with the slightly crisp edges, while fresh strawberries bring brightness and a natural sweetness. By using simple, high-quality ingredients and allowing the bread to soak in a rich custard, this casserole elevates the classic French toast into a crowd-pleasing, shareable dish.
It’s a recipe that encourages creativity and allows you to tailor it to your taste, whether you prefer it extra sweet, nutty, or with a touch of chocolate. Its flexibility makes it suitable for holidays, birthdays, or just a lazy weekend breakfast when you want to feel pampered without spending hours in the kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used if fresh ones are not available, though there are a few tips to ensure the best results. First, thaw the strawberries completely and drain any excess liquid. This step is crucial because too much moisture can make the bread soggy and affect the texture of the casserole. Once drained, you can layer the strawberries as directed in the recipe. Frozen strawberries may be slightly softer and sweeter than fresh ones, which can actually enhance the overall flavor of the casserole. If you want a brighter color, consider adding a few fresh strawberries on top after baking for a visually appealing finish.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best features of this strawberries & cream French toast casserole is that it can be prepared in advance. Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a rich, creamy, and custardy texture. When ready to bake, simply remove the casserole from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes if desired, and then bake according to the instructions. Making it ahead saves time on busy mornings or when hosting brunch, and it also gives the flavors a chance to meld beautifully, creating an even more flavorful dish.
3. Can I substitute the milk or cream?
Yes, substitutions are possible, but it’s important to maintain the balance between liquid and eggs for the custard to set properly. Whole milk and heavy cream provide a rich, creamy texture, but you can substitute with 2% milk or a non-dairy option like almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk. Keep in mind that non-dairy milk may slightly alter the flavor, and the custard may be a bit lighter in texture. To enhance richness with non-dairy milk, you can add a tablespoon of melted vegan butter or coconut cream.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Cover the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through. This will help maintain the custard’s creamy texture while crisping the edges slightly. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for a fresh-baked taste. Individual slices can also be reheated in the microwave for a quick breakfast option.
Conclusion
There’s a reason French toast casserole remains a beloved brunch staple—it’s comforting, versatile, and irresistibly delicious. This Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole takes the classic dish to new heights with its layers of custard-soaked bread, fresh strawberries, and creamy richness. Perfect for making ahead, serving a crowd, or treating yourself on a special morning, it’s a recipe that combines simplicity with indulgence.
Give this recipe a try, and you’ll understand why it’s become a favorite for so many families. From the first forkful to the last, each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness, freshness, and creamy decadence. Gather your loved ones, pour some coffee, and let this casserole create a memorable breakfast experience that’s both delicious and heartwarming.
Print
Easy & Delicious Strawberries & Cream French Toast Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 15–20 minutes (or overnight if soaked)
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Description
A warm, comforting breakfast perfect for cozy weekends, festive brunches, or special occasions. This casserole combines layers of buttery bread, fresh strawberries, and a rich, creamy custard, baked to golden perfection. It’s simple to make, can be prepared ahead, and brings joy with every bite.
Ingredients
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1 loaf of day-old French bread, cubed
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2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
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8 large eggs
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2 cups whole milk
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
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Powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)
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Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
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Cube the French bread into 1-inch pieces and spread evenly in the prepared dish.
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Layer sliced strawberries over the bread, reserving a few for garnish.
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In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
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Pour custard mixture evenly over the bread and strawberries, pressing lightly to soak all pieces. Drizzle melted butter on top.
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Optional: Cover and refrigerate overnight for a richer custard texture. If baking immediately, soak at least 30 minutes.
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Cover casserole with foil and bake 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 25–30 minutes, until top is golden and custard is set.
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Allow to cool 10–15 minutes before serving. Garnish with powdered sugar and reserved strawberries, and serve with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
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Use day-old bread for the best custard absorption.
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Fresh, ripe strawberries provide optimal flavor.
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Customize with toppings like chocolate chips, nuts, or other berries.
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Can be prepared the night before for easy morning baking.
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Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55–60 minutes
