Description

This Raspberry Almond French Toast Casserole is a perfect choice for cozy weekend mornings, festive holiday brunches, or special family gatherings. Fluffy bread cubes soaked in a rich custard, layered with sweet-tart raspberries, and topped with toasted almonds create a dish that’s visually stunning, comforting, and irresistible. Its make-ahead convenience allows the flavors to meld overnight, making mornings stress-free while delivering maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup sliced almonds, toasted
2 tablespoons brown sugar (for topping)
Butter, for greasing the baking dish

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Instructions

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
Layer half of the bread cubes in the dish, then scatter half of the raspberries on top. Add the remaining bread and raspberries, gently pressing down to compact the layers.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt until smooth.
Pour the custard evenly over the layered bread and raspberries, pressing lightly to ensure all bread absorbs the liquid. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix sliced almonds with brown sugar for the topping.
Remove casserole from the refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. Sprinkle almond-brown sugar mixture over the top.
Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until custard is set and top is golden brown. Check doneness by inserting a knife in the center.
Allow to cool 5–10 minutes before serving. Serve as-is or with maple syrup or powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

Brioche or challah is best for soaking custard; avoid sandwich bread.
Fresh raspberries are ideal; frozen can be used but drain excess liquid.
Nuts are optional; can substitute pecans or walnuts.
Make-ahead assembly can be done up to 24 hours in advance for convenience.
Leftovers store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in microwave or oven.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes