Strawberry French Toast Casserole – A Sweet Breakfast Delight
If you’re looking for a breakfast recipe that’s as delightful to prepare as it is to eat, you’ll love Strawberry French Toast Casserole. This easy, family-friendly dish combines the sweet tang of strawberries with the creamy richness of baked French toast, making it a perfect centerpiece for brunch or a cozy weekend breakfast. Whether you’re serving a crowd or simply treating your family, this casserole is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love Strawberry French Toast Casserole
This recipe is absolutely wonderful for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare – just layer the ingredients, let them soak, and bake. If you’re a fan of make-ahead meals, this dish is perfect because you can assemble it the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning.
It’s also versatile. You can adapt it to suit dietary needs, swap in your favorite berries, or even make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free bread. The casserole is not only delicious but also visually stunning with its vibrant strawberry topping, making it a great choice for special occasions like Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, or a festive brunch.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this sweet and fruity breakfast casserole:
- Strawberries (2 cups, sliced): The star of the show, providing a fresh and juicy burst of flavor.
- Bread cubes (6–8 cups): Use day-old bread like French, brioche, or challah for the best texture.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Adds a creamy layer that complements the strawberries beautifully.
- Eggs (6 large): The foundation of the custard.
- Milk (2 cups): Creates the custard mixture; you can use whole milk, almond milk, or your favorite substitute.
- Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor.
- Cinnamon (1 tsp): Adds a warm, aromatic touch.
- Sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the custard mixture.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting): Perfect for finishing touches.
- Maple syrup (for serving): Complements the casserole with a touch of natural sweetness.
How to Make Strawberry French Toast Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Slice the strawberries and set them aside. If you’re prepping the night before, toss the strawberries with a little lemon juice to keep them fresh.
- Cube the bread into bite-sized pieces. Day-old bread works best because it soaks up the custard without becoming mushy.
Step 2: Assemble the Layers
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Spread half of the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Dot with softened cream cheese and layer half of the sliced strawberries on top.
- Add the remaining bread cubes, followed by the rest of the strawberries.
Step 3: Make the Custard
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until smooth. Slowly pour the mixture over the casserole, ensuring all the bread is evenly soaked.
Step 4: Chill or Bake
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to let the flavors meld.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set.
Pro Tips
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, add a tablespoon of orange zest to the custard mixture.
- Avoid Sogginess: Make sure the bread is slightly stale; fresh bread may result in a soggy casserole.
- Speed Things Up: If you’re in a hurry, skip the overnight chilling and let the casserole soak for just 30 minutes before baking.
- Mix It Up: Swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of your favorite berries.
How to Serve
This casserole is best served warm, straight from the oven. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation, and drizzle with maple syrup for extra sweetness. Pair it with whipped cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
For a well-rounded brunch, serve it alongside crispy bacon, sausage links, or a fresh fruit salad. This dish is also fantastic as a standalone crowd-pleaser for holidays and special occasions.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s a basic breakdown of the nutritional value (serves 8):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
For lower-calorie options, use low-fat milk and cream cheese. To reduce sugar, opt for a sugar substitute or leave out the powdered sugar garnish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 300°F for 10–15 minutes.
- Freezing: Assemble the casserole without baking, wrap it tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Conclusion
Strawberry French Toast Casserole is a delightful, family-friendly breakfast that combines classic flavors with modern convenience. It’s perfect for everything from lazy weekend mornings to elegant brunch gatherings. With its vibrant colors and sweet, creamy layers, this casserole is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
If you try this recipe, let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to check out our other breakfast ideas, like Banana Oatmeal Waffles or Blueberry Pancake Casserole, for more inspiration.
FAQ
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free bread.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones!

Emily Harper is a kitchen decor expert and interior designer with a passion for creating stylish, functional spaces. As a busy mom, she understands the importance of a kitchen that works for both family life and design. With 6 years of experience, Emily specializes in transforming kitchens into inviting, practical spaces. She’s known for her ability to blend trends with everyday needs, helping families create kitchens that feel like the heart of the home.