If you’re looking for a show-stopping brunch that combines the best of creamy cheesecake and fruity raspberry flavors wrapped in the comforting goodness of French toast, you’ll absolutely love this Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe. This dish is like a warm, sweet hug that delights with every bite—the tangy raspberries perfectly balance the rich cream cheese and the custardy bread soaks up all those flavors beautifully. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weekend gatherings or a special cozy breakfast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe lies in simple, quality ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role, from the soft cream cheese adding luscious richness to the fresh raspberries that bring a bright burst of color and tang. Here’s what you’ll need:
- French bread, 1 loaf, cubed: Sturdy enough to soak up the custard without getting mushy, providing a perfect base texture.
- Cream cheese, 8 oz, softened: This gives the casserole its signature creamy cheesecake flavor and smooth texture.
- Granulated sugar, 1/3 cup: Sweetens the cheesecake mixture just enough to balance the tang from the raspberries.
- Vanilla extract, 1 tsp: Adds a warm, fragrant note that plays beautifully with the cream and raspberries.
- Large eggs, 6: The backbone of the custard, eggs hold everything together and give that classic French toast richness.
- Whole milk, 2 cups: Helps create a silky, creamy custard that soaks deep into the bread cubes.
- Heavy cream, 1/2 cup: Enhances the custard’s richness and makes the dish decadently smooth.
- Raspberry preserves, 1/2 cup: Swirled through the casserole, they provide bursts of juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- Fresh raspberries, 1/2 cup (optional): For extra freshness and gorgeous pops of ruby-red that brighten each bite.
- Powdered sugar: Light dusting for an elegant, sweet finale to your casserole.
- Butter or non-stick spray: Essential to grease your baking dish so nothing sticks and the crust bakes up beautifully.
How to Make Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Layer Bread
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy serving after baking. Then spread half of your cubed French bread evenly in the dish, creating the foundational layer that will soak up all the delicious custard.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, blend softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until it’s perfectly smooth and spreadable. This luscious mixture is what gives the casserole its irresistible cheesecake character.
Step 3: Add Cream Cheese and Raspberry Layers
Dollop spoonfuls of your cream cheese mixture over the bread in the dish, then add generous spoonfuls of raspberry preserves on top. If you want a fresh contrast, sprinkle some fresh raspberries over this layer—they add a delightful tartness and pretty pops of color.
Step 4: Top with Remaining Bread
Complete the layering with the rest of your bread cubes, gently pressing them down so they nestle well with the cheesecake and raspberry layers below. This helps the custard absorb evenly all throughout the casserole.
Step 5: Whisk Custard and Pour Over
In a large bowl, thoroughly whisk together eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream until fully combined. Pour this custard gently over the casserole, ensuring every bread cube gets soaked for ultimate custardy goodness.
Step 6: Refrigerate to Soak
Cover your casserole and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight. This soak time is key—it allows the bread to absorb all those rich flavors deeply, making sure each bite is creamy and indulgent.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
When ready, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the casserole from the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes. This step helps the casserole bake evenly so the center sets just right.
Step 8: Bake and Brown
Bake your casserole uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the custard is fully set. The aroma alone is absolutely heavenly at this stage!
Step 9: Cool and Garnish
Let your Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. This final touch adds a pretty and sweet finish that’s a delight to look at and taste.
How to Serve Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar instantly transforms this casserole into a brunch centerpiece. For extra flair, add fresh raspberries or a drizzle of warm raspberry sauce for a luscious presentation that highlights the fruit’s vibrant color and tang.
Side Dishes
This casserole is rich and satisfying on its own but pairing it with fresh fruit salad or crispy bacon balances the meal wonderfully. The acidity and freshness of your sides brighten the palate after each rich, creamy bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant brunch, serve individual portions on pretty plates garnished with mint leaves and a small dollop of whipped cream. You can also layer it in clear glass dishes for a stunning visual effect showcasing every creamy and fruity layer of the Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover casserole refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully, though the texture is best enjoyed within the first day for optimal custard creaminess.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for up to a month by wrapping portions tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When thawed, the casserole retains most of its flavor and richness, perfect for a quick yet indulgent breakfast fix.
Reheating
Reheat portions gently in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes to revive the crisp top and warm center. Microwaving works for convenience but may soften the crust, so the oven is recommended when you want that freshly baked texture back.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread instead of French bread?
Absolutely! While French bread is ideal for its sturdy texture, you can also use brioche or challah for a slightly sweeter and softer casserole. Just make sure the bread is thickly sliced to hold up to the custard soak.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the casserole overnight?
Refrigerating overnight or for at least 4 hours ensures the bread soaks fully, resulting in a custardy, flavorful casserole. If pressed for time, a shorter soak may work but the texture might not be as rich.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead without baking immediately?
Yes, the Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe is perfect for prepping a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate before baking, then bake fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best taste and texture.
What can I use instead of raspberry preserves?
If you don’t have raspberry preserves, any other berry jam like strawberry or blackberry works well. They bring a similar sweet and tangy flavor that complements the cheesecake layer.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese, use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, and replace heavy cream with coconut cream. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious!
Final Thoughts
This Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe is the perfect fusion of creamy, fruity, and custardy brunch heaven. It’s easy to prepare, spectacular to serve, and absolutely irresistible to eat. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or treating yourself, it’s a memorable way to start the day with something truly special. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own brunch favorite!
Print
Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (including refrigerate time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole is a decadent breakfast or brunch dish that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the fruity brightness of raspberries. Cubes of French bread are layered with a smooth cream cheese mixture and raspberry preserves, soaked in an egg custard, and baked to golden perfection. It’s ideal for make-ahead mornings and serves up to eight people.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10 cups)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup raspberry preserves
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries (optional)
- Powdered sugar for garnish (optional)
- 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. Then, evenly spread half of the French bread cubes into the dish as the first layer.
- Make the cream cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, use a mixer or spoon to blend the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Layer cream cheese and raspberries: Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the bread layer, followed by spoonfuls of raspberry preserves. If using fresh raspberries, sprinkle them evenly over this layer for added freshness and texture.
- Add remaining bread cubes: Place the remaining bread cubes on top of the cream cheese and raspberry layer. Gently press down to compact the layers slightly, ensuring good coverage and mixing of flavors.
- Prepare custard and pour: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream until fully combined. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the entire casserole, making sure all bread cubes absorb the liquid.
- Refrigerate to soak: Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step allows the bread to soak up the custard and enhances the flavors.
- Preheat oven and bring to room temperature: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Bake the casserole: Place the uncovered dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is fully set, indicating that the custard is cooked through.
- Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before dusting the top with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Fresh raspberries are optional but add a lovely burst of freshness and texture.
- This casserole can be assembled a day ahead, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Ensure the bread is well-soaked in the custard to avoid dry bites.
- Powdered sugar garnish is optional but adds a sweet finishing touch and attractive presentation.
- Use day-old bread if possible for optimal absorption of custard.
