Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast treat that combines tangy raspberries with creamy cheesecake flavors. Perfect for a weekend brunch or special occasion, it’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 12 cups cubed French bread (about 1 large loaf)
• 2 cups raspberries (fresh or frozen)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 10 eggs
• 1 2/3 cups milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Powdered sugar (for serving)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with 1/3 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the raspberries, being careful not to crush them.
2. Step 2: Spread half of the cubed French bread evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon the cream cheese and raspberry mixture over the bread, then top with the remaining bread cubes.
3. Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla until fully combined.
4. Step 4: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread layers in the baking dish, pressing down lightly to soak the bread.
5. Step 5: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
6. Step 6: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and bake uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
7. Step 7: Let the casserole cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use brioche or challah bread for an even richer texture.
• Swap raspberries for blueberries or strawberries depending on your preference.
• Adding a pinch of cinnamon to the egg mixture enhances the flavor.
• For a crunchy topping, sprinkle chopped nuts or streusel before baking.

Storage

Store any leftover casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warm. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Yes, preparing it the night before allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a more flavorful and tender casserole.

Can I use frozen raspberries?

Absolutely. If using frozen raspberries, there’s no need to thaw them first; they can be folded in directly with the cream cheese mixture.

Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 71 reviews

This Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast or brunch dish combining the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the fruity freshness of raspberries. Cubed French bread is layered with a sweet cream cheese mixture and raspberries, then soaked in an egg and milk custard before baking into a golden, custardy delight. Perfect for gatherings or a special weekend treat.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 70 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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French Toast Casserole

• 1/2 cup cubed French bread (about 1 large loaf)
• 2 cups raspberries (fresh or frozen)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 10 eggs
• 1 2/3 cups milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/3 cup sugar together until smooth and creamy. This will create a sweet, tangy layer reminiscent of cheesecake.
2. Assemble the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, spread half of the cubed French bread. Dollop the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bread, then sprinkle half of the raspberries on top. Add the remaining bread cubes and raspberries, layering to distribute ingredients evenly.
3. Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth. This custard will soak into the bread, creating a luscious texture upon baking.
4. Soak the Casserole: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the assembled bread, cream cheese, and raspberries. Gently press down the bread to help it absorb the custard. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
5. Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the custard is set, and the top is golden brown.
6. Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Cut into squares and serve warm for a comforting and delicious breakfast treat.

Notes

• Use day-old French bread for the best texture as it absorbs the custard without becoming mushy.
• Fresh or frozen raspberries both work well; if using frozen, do not thaw to avoid excess moisture.
• Cover and refrigerate the casserole overnight to enhance flavors and improve custard absorption.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for a warm spice note.
• Serve with maple syrup or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.

Keywords: Raspberry French Toast Casserole, Cheesecake French Toast, Breakfast Casserole, Baked French Toast, Raspberry Dessert Breakfast