If you’re craving a brunch dish that’s both indulgent and wonderfully comforting, the Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful casserole marries the creamy richness of cheesecake with the fresh tartness of raspberries, all nestled inside perfectly toasted French bread. It’s like your favorite dessert and breakfast combined into one unforgettable dish that’s sure to impress family and friends. Trust me, once you make this Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple for weekend mornings and holiday gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from creating the creamy cheesecake texture to delivering the vibrant berry flavor and the satisfying custardy soak.
- French bread: Using a sturdy loaf ensures the cubes soak up the custard without falling apart, giving you that perfect tender bite.
- Cream cheese: Softened to smoothness, it adds that luscious, creamy cheesecake layer throughout.
- Granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the tart raspberries and enrich the custard.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic depth that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- Eggs: The star ingredient in the custard, eggs provide structure and richness.
- Whole milk: Brings creaminess and moisture to soak the bread cubes evenly.
- Heavy cream: Elevates the custard’s decadence for an ultra-rich final result.
- Raspberry preserves: Packs bursts of juicy tartness and sweetness throughout the casserole.
- Fresh raspberries (optional): Adds a fresh, tangy pop and beautiful color contrast.
- Powdered sugar (optional): For a delicate finishing touch that enhances presentation and sweetness.
- Butter or non-stick spray: To grease the baking dish and ensure easy release.
How to Make Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This simple step prevents sticking and helps the casserole bake evenly. Then, layer half of your cubed French bread evenly across the dish, creating a sturdy base that will soak up all the delicious custard.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until perfectly smooth and creamy. This luscious filling will create pockets of cheesecake flavor throughout the casserole, offering a dreamy richness in every bite.
Step 3: Layer the Cream Cheese and Raspberry Preserves
Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Follow up by adding spoonfuls of raspberry preserves, spreading them around for bursts of sweet-tart fruitiness. If you’re using fresh raspberries, sprinkle them on now for even more vibrant flavor and a pretty presentation.
Step 4: Add the Remaining Bread
Cover the cheesecake and raspberry layers with the remaining bread cubes, gently pressing them down to create a compact casserole. This top layer will soak up the custard and bake into a golden, slightly crisp topping.
Step 5: Pour the Custard Over the Bread
Whisk together eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream in a large bowl until fully combined. Pour this rich custard evenly over the entire casserole, making sure every bread cube is generously soaked for that creamy texture we all love.
Step 6: Chill to Set
Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This resting time allows the custard to seep fully into the bread, melding all those incredible flavors together for the perfect bake.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
When you’re ready, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the casserole sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes. Then bake it uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top is beautifully golden and the center is set but still custardy.
Step 8: Finish and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool slightly for easier serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, adding a delicate sweetness and a touch of elegance before serving up your Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe.
How to Serve Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the visual appeal and flavor of your casserole by garnishing with fresh raspberries and a light dusting of powdered sugar. A drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream can also elevate every bite with that extra layer of indulgence.
Side Dishes
Since this casserole is quite rich, pairing it with light, fresh sides works beautifully. Consider a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or some fresh fruit salad to balance the richness. A simple glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a strong cup of coffee rounds out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe family-style right out of the baking dish for a cozy feel, or portion it individually on plates topped with a raspberry coulis or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a brunch that feels like dessert. You can even layer it in clear glass baking dishes to showcase those colorful layers—such a treat for the eyes!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it tightly wrapped or in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well if you want to prepare it ahead of time. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Reheating
To enjoy your leftovers hot, reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or place the entire casserole in a preheated 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. This helps restore some of that fresh-baked warmth and texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this casserole?
Absolutely! While French bread works best for its texture and sturdiness, you can substitute brioche or challah for a slightly sweeter, softer version. Just be mindful that softer breads may turn a bit more custardy and less crisp.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the casserole before baking?
Yes, refrigerating the casserole allows the custard to soak fully into the bread cubes, resulting in a creamy and custardy interior. Skipping this step can lead to less flavorful and dense French toast.
Can I make this Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe vegan or dairy-free?
You can modify the recipe by using plant-based cream cheese, milk alternatives, and egg substitutes. Keep in mind this will alter the texture and taste slightly, but it’s a great way to accommodate dietary needs.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming soggy?
Using slightly stale French bread and chilling the casserole before baking helps control moisture. Also, baking uncovered ensures the top crisps up nicely while the inside remains moist but not soggy.
Can this recipe be doubled for larger gatherings?
Definitely! You can double the ingredients and bake it in a larger pan or two separate pans. Just keep an eye on baking time, as larger casseroles might need a few extra minutes to cook through evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe is such a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. Its combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet elements creates a breakfast experience that’s both special and surprisingly easy. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or treating yourself on a slow weekend morning, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Give it a try and watch it disappear fast—just like my guests do!
Print
Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (including refrigerated soaking time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole is a luscious and decadent breakfast or brunch dish that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet tartness of raspberries. Cubed French bread is layered with a luscious cream cheese mixture and raspberry preserves, then soaked in a custard of eggs, milk, and cream. After refrigerating overnight, it’s baked to golden perfection, resulting in a warm, custardy, and fruit-filled delight that’s perfect for serving to family and guests.
Ingredients
Bread
- 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10 cups)
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 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 Garnish
- 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 with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Add half of the cubed French bread evenly into the dish as the first layer.
- Mix Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy to ensure even distribution in the casserole.
- Assemble Layers: Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the bread cubes in the dish. Then, spoon raspberry preserves over the cream cheese, and sprinkle fresh raspberries on top if using. This layering introduces the signature raspberry cheesecake flavor.
- Top with Remaining Bread: Add the remaining bread cubes over the raspberry and cream cheese layers, gently pressing down to compact the casserole slightly but without crushing the bread.
- Prepare Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream until fully combined. Pour this custard evenly over the layered bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked by gently pressing down if needed.
- Refrigerate: Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This soaking period allows the bread to absorb the custard and meld all flavors.
- Preheat Oven and Rest Casserole: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes to take the chill off, which helps in even baking.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set, which indicates the custard is fully cooked through.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this rich, fruity, and creamy breakfast treat.
Notes
- For best results, use day-old or slightly stale French bread as it soaks up the custard better without becoming mushy.
- Fresh raspberries are optional but add a bright, natural tartness and texture contrast.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before, making it ideal for holiday or weekend brunches.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently before serving.
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute cream cheese and dairy milk with plant-based versions.
