Luscious Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe

Dreamy Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe

Weekend brunch gets a delightful upgrade with this decadent raspberry cheesecake French toast casserole that brings together creamy cheesecake layers and soft, custardy bread.

Rich, indulgent flavors meld perfectly in every single bite.

The sweet-tart raspberries provide a burst of freshness that cuts through the rich cream cheese mixture.

Layers of soft bread soak up a luxurious custard, creating a breakfast masterpiece that feels almost too good to be true.

Guests will swoon over the combination of classic French toast and cheesecake smooth texture.

This make-ahead marvel ensures you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying a leisurely morning.

Dive into this irresistible breakfast sensation that promises to make your weekend mornings extraordinary.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45-50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus overnight refrigeration)

Calories: 275 kcal

Servings: 13

Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Ingredient List

For Bread Base:
  • French Bread: Sturdy white bread perfect for soaking up creamy custard, choose a day-old loaf for better texture absorption.
  • Cooking Spray: Ensures effortless pan release and prevents sticking during baking.
For Cream Cheese Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: Provides luxurious richness and tangy depth, select full-fat version for smoothest consistency.
  • Granulated Sugar: Balances cream cheese's tanginess and adds subtle sweetness.
For Custard Mixture:
  • Eggs: Binds ingredients together and creates silky texture, use fresh room-temperature eggs for best results.
  • Milk: Creates smooth, tender base for the casserole, whole milk recommended for maximum creaminess.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, aromatic undertone that complements other ingredients.
For Fruity Burst:
  • Raspberries: Introduces bright, tart flavor and beautiful color contrast, choose fresh or frozen berries at peak ripeness.
For Finishing Touches:
  • Powdered Sugar: Light dusting adds elegant visual appeal and subtle sweetness.
  • Maple Syrup: Classic accompaniment that enhances overall breakfast experience.

Tools to Make Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole

  • 9×13-inch baking dish: Essential for layering and baking the casserole.
  • Large mixing bowl: Perfect for whisking eggs and creating the custard mixture.
  • Small bowl: Ideal for mixing cream cheese and sugar.
  • Whisk: Crucial for blending eggs, milk, and sugar smoothly.
  • Sharp knife: Needed to cut French bread into even cubes.
  • Cooking spray: Used to grease the baking dish and prevent sticking.
  • Measuring cups: Helps accurately measure ingredients like sugar and milk.
  • Plastic wrap or lid: Covers the casserole during refrigeration.

How to Bake Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole

  • Bread Preparation

Slice French bread into chunky pieces and layer two-thirds of the cubes in a greased baking dish.

  • Cream Cheese Magic

Mix cream cheese with sugar until silky smooth, creating delightful dollops across the bread layer.

  • Berry Sprinkle

Scatter fresh raspberries over the cream cheese-covered bread, then top with remaining bread cubes.

  • Liquid Gold

Whisk eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla into a dreamy custard mixture that will transform the casserole.

  • Soaking Sensation

Pour the custard evenly over the bread, gently pressing cubes to help them absorb the liquid goodness.

  • Chill Time

Refrigerate the casserole overnight, allowing flavors to mingle and develop deep, rich tastes.

  • Baking Brilliance

Preheat oven to 350°F and bake uncovered until the top turns golden and the center reaches perfect temperature.

  • Finishing Touches

Let the casserole rest briefly, then dust with powdered sugar and serve alongside maple syrup for a decadent breakfast experience.

Tips for a Perfect Cheesecake French Toast Casserole

  • Replace raspberries with blueberries, strawberries, or mixed berries for a delightful flavor twist.
  • Mix chopped nuts, cinnamon, or orange zest into the cream cheese for added depth and excitement.
  • Use challah, brioche, or cinnamon raisin bread to create different texture and taste profiles.
  • Prepare the casserole up to two days in advance, storing covered in the refrigerator for convenient entertaining.
  • Sprinkle sliced almonds or crushed graham crackers on top before baking to add a satisfying crispy layer.

Best Ways to Serve Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole

  • Breakfast Party Centerpiece: This stunning casserole transforms an ordinary morning into a delightful celebration, perfect for weekend brunches or special family gatherings.
  • Morning Elegance Upgrade: Elevate your breakfast routine with restaurant-quality presentation by garnishing with fresh raspberries, mint leaves, and a delicate dusting of powdered sugar.
  • Sweet Companion Pairings: Complement the rich flavors with crispy bacon strips, fresh fruit salad, or a refreshing mimosa for a complete morning feast that delights every taste bud.
  • Leftover Magic Transformation: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of extra maple syrup to restore the casserole's original moisture and warmth.

Storage Instructions for Cheesecake French Toast Casserole

  • Refrigerator Storage Solutions: Transfer any leftover casserole into an airtight container, which keeps the dish fresh for 3-4 days. Cool the casserole completely before sealing to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, storing it covered in the refrigerator. This technique allows deeper flavor absorption and saves precious morning preparation time.
  • Freezer-Friendly Strategy: Wrap the uncooked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, ensuring the same delightful taste and texture.
  • Portion Control Technique: Cut individual servings and store separately in sealed containers for quick grab-and-go breakfast options. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 60-90 seconds until warm and slightly steamy.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Luscious Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe

Luscious Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus overnight refrigeration)
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Comfort breakfast Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole blends creamy cheesecake layers with sweet raspberry notes. Delightful weekend brunch perfection awaits when you indulge in this rich, satisfying morning treat.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 cups cubed French bread (about 1 large loaf)
  • 10 eggs
  • 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups raspberries (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 ⅔ cups (397 ml) milk
  • ½ cup (100 g) sugar
  • ⅓ cup (66 g) sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Powdered sugar (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Dish Preparation: Thoroughly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent adhesion.
  2. Bread Layering: Cube French bread into rustic 1½-inch pieces, creating a foundational layer covering two-thirds of the dish. Distribute cream cheese mixture in uneven dollops across the bread, ensuring varied texture and flavor distribution.
  3. Raspberry Incorporation: Sprinkle fresh raspberries over the cream cheese-covered bread cubes, then complete the layering with remaining bread cubes.
  4. Custard Creation: Whisk eggs until light and frothy, blending milk, sugar, and vanilla extract into a harmonious liquid base. Gently pour custard over the stratified bread, pressing downward to maximize liquid absorption.
  5. Flavor Infusion: Refrigerate the assembled casserole overnight, allowing ingredients to meld and bread to fully soak.
  6. Thermal Transformation: Preheat oven to 350°F with rack positioned centrally. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F and surface achieves a golden-brown complexion.
  7. Finishing Touches: Remove from oven and let rest briefly. Optionally dust with powdered sugar and serve alongside maple syrup for an indulgent presentation.

Notes

  • Overnight Soak Matters: Letting the casserole rest in the refrigerator overnight allows bread to absorb custard completely, creating a decadent texture and deeper flavor profile.
  • Temperature Check Essential: Use a food thermometer to ensure the casserole reaches 160°F, guaranteeing safe egg cooking and perfect doneness.
  • Bread Selection Impacts Texture: Choose day-old French bread for better absorption and a more structured consistency that prevents soggy results.
  • Cream Cheese Distribution Technique: Dollop cream cheese mixture unevenly for surprising pockets of creamy richness throughout each serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 275
  • Sugar: 7.5 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Sophie Martin

Sophie Martin

Co-Founder & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Nutrition and Healthy Eating
  • Creating Balanced Recipes
  • Meal Planning
  • Food Safety
  • Teaching About Nutrition

Education

Stellenbosch University, South Africa

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition
  • Focus: Studying how food affects health, learning about balanced diets, and understanding the nutritional needs of different people.

South African Chefs Academy, Cape Town

  • Program: Professional Culinary Arts Diploma
  • Focus: Practical cooking skills, focusing on healthy meal preparation and understanding various cooking methods.

Sophie Martin is the nutrition brain and feel-good foodie at Good Tasting Meals. With a degree in Human Nutrition from Stellenbosch University and chef training from the South African Chefs Academy, Sophie brings balance to the table, literally. She loves creating meals that are easy to make, great to eat, and good for your body too.

Her recipes are made for everyday living, with a little flair and a lot of heart. Sophie’s not here to count calories, she’s here to show you how fresh, simple food can fit into your life, taste amazing, and still be nourishing.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star