If you’re searching for a show-stopping breakfast or brunch idea that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender cubes of French bread soaked in a luscious custard, layers of creamy cheesecake swirled with vibrant raspberry preserves, and fresh berries bursting with tart sweetness—baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting, elegant dish that transforms simple ingredients into something wonderfully special, perfect for gatherings or a weekend treat that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe plays an essential role, creating a balance of creamy, fruity, and custardy flavors with a delightful texture. The simplicity of these staples makes them easy to find, yet together they craft a delicious masterpiece.
- French bread: Use a loaf cut into 1-inch cubes for just the right amount of tenderness and structure.
- Cream cheese: Softened to blend smoothly and provide that rich cheesecake element.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to perfect the custard and cheesecake layers.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm aromatic presence.
- Large eggs: The base for the custard soak, binding everything beautifully.
- Whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture needed for soaking the bread.
- Heavy cream: Boosts richness to the custard for an indulgent finish.
- Raspberry preserves: Brings a luscious, fruity tartness to contrast the creamy cheesecake.
- Fresh raspberries (optional): Adds a pop of natural freshness and vibrant color.
- Powdered sugar (optional): Perfect for a delicate, pretty dusting before serving.
- Butter or non-stick spray: For greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking and add a hint of buttery flavor.
How to Make Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Bread
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray, ensuring the casserole won’t stick during baking. Then, place half of your cubed French bread into the dish, making an even layer. This foundation soaks up the custard perfectly and supports the cheesy, fruity layers.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until silky smooth. This mixture will cradle the raspberries and add that irresistible creamy cheesecake texture throughout the casserole.
Step 3: Layer the Cheesecake Mixture and Raspberry Preserves
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the first layer of bread. Next, add dollops of raspberry preserves over the cream cheese, distributing the fruity flavor evenly. For an extra burst of freshness, sprinkle fresh raspberries on top if you like. This layering infuses every bite with creamy sweetness and tart brightness.
Step 4: Add Remaining Bread Cubes
Place the remaining bread cubes on top of the layered mixture, gently pressing down so everything holds together but still invites the custard soak. This step is key to achieving a beautifully structured casserole.
Step 5: Make the Custard and Pour It Over
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream until fully combined. Pour this luscious custard evenly over the bread, making sure every cube is soaked with the rich mixture. This custard is what brings the whole Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe to life with its silky texture.
Step 6: Refrigerate to Set
Cover the casserole and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling time lets the bread absorb the custard fully and the flavors meld beautifully, promising a custardy, melt-in-your-mouth final dish.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the casserole out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes to take the chill off. Then bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes until the top is gloriously golden and the center is set but still custardy.
Step 8: Final Touches Before Serving
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. This finishing touch adds a delicate sweetness and makes the casserole look absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar is classic and gorgeous, but don’t hesitate to add fresh raspberries or a drizzle of warmed raspberry preserves for an extra pop of color and sweetness. A sprig of mint can also add a refreshing contrast and a beautiful finish.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp bacon or sausage for a savory balance. A bright green salad or fresh citrus fruit salad can also complement the richness perfectly and add some refreshing lightness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish straight from the baking dish family-style to keep it cozy and inviting, or slice into individual portions and plate with a scoop of vanilla yogurt or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch. For brunch parties, consider adding a topping bar with nuts, chocolate chips, or additional berries so everyone can customize their serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Storing it chilled keeps the custard fresh and flavors well-preserved, so your next-day breakfast is just as delightful.
Freezing
You can freeze individual portions of the casserole wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. This makes it a brilliant option for meal prep or future breakfast treats that need just a quick thaw and reheat.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp on top. Alternatively, microwave slices on medium power for 1 to 2 minutes, but the oven method is best to retain the casserole’s signature texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this casserole?
Absolutely! While French bread is ideal for its texture and sturdiness, you can use brioche or challah for a richer, softer bite. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to absorb the custard without turning too mushy.
Is it better to make this casserole the night before?
Yes, letting the casserole soak overnight intensifies the flavors and ensures the bread is completely saturated with the custard. It makes the difference between ordinary and extraordinary!
Can I substitute the raspberry preserves with another fruit?
For sure! Strawberry, blueberry, or even apricot preserves work beautifully and offer a different twist while keeping the overall concept delicious.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream in the custard?
The heavy cream adds extra richness and creaminess, creating that decadent mouthfeel we all love in this Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe. You can swap it with more milk for a lighter version, but it won’t be quite as indulgent.
Can I prepare this casserole vegan or dairy-free?
While the recipe relies on dairy for the cheesecake flavor and creamy custard, you can experiment with vegan cream cheese alternatives, plant-based milk, and egg substitutes. The texture and taste will be different, but it can still be a tasty treat!
Final Thoughts
This Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels both decadent and comforting. Whether you’re looking for a brunch centerpiece or a special weekend breakfast, it’s incredibly easy to prepare ahead and bake when ready. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy French toast with a berry-infused cheesecake twist!
Print
Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (excluding refrigeration time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast or brunch treat combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet tang of raspberries and the comforting texture of French toast. Prepared ahead and baked until golden, this casserole offers a luscious, custard-soaked bread experience perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10 cups)
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Custard
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Fruit and Toppings
- 1/2 cup raspberry preserves
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries (optional)
- Powdered sugar for garnish (optional)
Other
- Butter or non-stick spray for greasing
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and to ensure easy serving.
- Mix the Cheesecake Layer: In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Layer Bread and Cream Cheese Mixture: Place half of the French bread cubes evenly in the greased baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the bread, then add spoonfuls of raspberry preserves. If using, sprinkle fresh raspberries over the top for added freshness and flavor.
- Top with Remaining Bread Cubes: Cover the fruit and cream cheese layer with the remaining bread cubes, pressing gently to help layers adhere together without crushing the bread.
- Prepare Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream until fully combined and slightly frothy, which will create a rich custard base.
- Soak the Casserole: Pour the custard evenly over the layered bread, making sure every piece is soaked. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard fully.
- Bring to Room Temperature: Before baking, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the uncovered casserole for 40–45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set and cooked through.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar if desired to add a touch of sweetness and elegance before serving warm.
Notes
- For best results, use day-old French bread so it can absorb the custard without becoming too mushy.
- The casserole can be assembled the night before, making it a convenient make-ahead dish.
- Fresh raspberries are optional but add a nice texture contrast and fresh flavor.
- Use whole milk and heavy cream for richer custard; for a lighter version, substitute with milk only.
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
