Berry Lemon French Toast Casserole Fresh and Tasty Dish

October 7, 2025August 4, 2025 by Amelia

Looking for a delicious breakfast that’s both fresh and easy? My Berry Lemon French Toast Casserole hits the spot! This mouthwatering dish combines sweet berries with tangy lemon, making it a perfect choice for brunch or a family gathering. With simple steps and fun variations, you’ll impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the ingredients and learn how to whip up this tasty treat!

Why I Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This casserole comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.
Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of mixed berries and lemon zest creates a refreshing and vibrant flavor profile.
Great for Sharing: With 6-8 servings, it’s an ideal dish for family breakfasts or entertaining guests without the hassle of individual servings.
Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite fruits or add nuts to personalize this dish to your taste.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 loaf of brioche bread, cubed

– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

– 4 large eggs

– 2 cups milk

– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

– 1/4 cup maple syrup

– Zest of 1 lemon

– 2 tablespoons lemon juice

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1 teaspoon cinnamon

– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

– Butter for greasing

– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

To make this Berry Lemon French Toast Casserole, you need a few key ingredients. The star of the dish is brioche bread. This bread is soft and sweet, perfect for soaking up the egg mixture. You can also use challah if you like a different texture.

Next, you will need mixed berries. I love using strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. They add a burst of flavor and color to the dish. You can use fresh or frozen berries, but fresh gives the best taste.

Eggs and dairy are essential for the custard base. You will need four large eggs, two cups of milk, and half a cup of Greek yogurt. The yogurt adds creaminess and a hint of tang.

For sweeteners and flavorings, grab a quarter cup of maple syrup, lemon zest, lemon juice, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. These ingredients give the casserole a bright and fresh taste.

Lastly, don’t forget the spices! You will need a teaspoon of cinnamon and a quarter teaspoon of nutmeg. These spices add warmth and depth to the dish.

If you want to add a special touch, consider optional garnishes like powdered sugar or more fresh berries on top. These little extras make your casserole look and taste amazing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. This step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.

– Mixing the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, and 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt. Add 1/4 cup of maple syrup for sweetness. Then mix in the zest of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. Whisk until smooth and well blended.

– Layering Ingredients

Layer half of the cubed brioche bread in the bottom of your baking dish. Spread half of the mixed berries over the bread. You can use strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Pour half of the egg mixture over the bread and berries to coat them evenly.

– Baking the Casserole

Repeat the layers with the remaining brioche, the rest of the mixed berries, and the rest of the egg mixture. Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, take off the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and the center should feel set.

– Serving Instructions

Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Slice it into pieces and serve warm. For a special touch, dust with powdered sugar and serve with extra fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup on the side. This makes every bite extra tasty!

Tips & Tricks

Make-Ahead Options

Tips for Overnight Preparation

You can prepare this casserole the night before. Start by mixing your egg mixture and layering the bread and berries in the dish. Cover it with foil and place it in the fridge. This lets the bread soak up the flavors overnight. The next morning, just pop it in the oven.

Portion Control Tips

When you serve the casserole, cut it into small squares. This way, everyone gets a taste without overdoing it. You can also save leftovers for later. Just store them in the fridge and enjoy them for breakfast or dessert.

Baking Perfection

Ensuring a Golden Brown Top

To get that perfect golden top, bake the casserole uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes. You want it to be golden but not burnt. The top should look inviting and crispy.

Checking for Doneness

To check if it’s done, insert a knife in the center. If it comes out clean, your casserole is ready. If not, give it a few more minutes. It should be set in the middle and not too wobbly. This ensures every bite is delicious.

Pro Tips

Use Day-Old Bread: Stale brioche absorbs the egg mixture better, resulting in a creamier texture.
Add More Flavor: Consider infusing the milk with a bit of lemon extract for an extra citrusy kick.
Berry Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal fruits like peaches or cherries for a unique twist.
Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it fresh in the morning for easy serving.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can swap the bread type for this casserole.

– Different Types of Bread: Brioche is soft and tasty, but try challah or sourdough. Each bread gives a unique flavor. You can even use whole wheat for more fiber.

– Alternative Berries: Mixed berries are great, but feel free to change them. Use blackberries, peaches, or even bananas. Each fruit brings a new twist to your dish.

Flavor Additions

Adding flavors can make your casserole even better.

– Citrus Variations: Besides lemon, try orange or lime zest. These will brighten the dish and add freshness. Just remember to adjust the juice amounts.

– Adding Nuts or Chocolate: For a crunch, add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts. If you love chocolate, sprinkle in some chocolate chips. Both options make the casserole richer and more fun.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Berry Lemon French Toast Casserole fresh, use an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well. Store the casserole in the fridge. It stays good for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. In the freezer, it lasts for about two months. Just remember to label the container with the date.

Reheating Instructions

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warm throughout.

If you choose the microwave, cut a slice and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking it often.

After reheating, serve the casserole warm. You can add a drizzle of maple syrup or more fresh berries on top. This makes each bite even better!

FAQs

Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen berries. Just add them straight to the dish. They may release more juice, which makes it a bit saucy. This will still taste great!

How to make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, switch brioche bread for gluten-free bread. Check the label to ensure it is certified gluten-free. This change keeps the flavors without gluten.

Can I prepare this casserole without eggs?

Yes, you can. Use a mix of ground flaxseed and water as an egg replacer. Combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. This will help bind the casserole.

What are the best toppings for Berry Lemon French Toast Casserole?

Some great toppings include fresh berries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of maple syrup. You can also add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a sweet touch. Nuts add a nice crunch too!

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk. Replace Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt. This keeps the dish creamy and delicious without dairy.

This blog post explored how to make a tasty berry lemon French toast casserole. We covered the key ingredients, preparation steps, and valuable tips for success. You learned about variations to suit your taste, how to store leftovers, and how to reheat them perfectly. This dish is versatile and easy to tweak for any preference. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and ingredients. Whether for breakfast or brunch, this casserole is sure to impress. Happy cookin

$- 1 loaf of brioche bread, cubed - 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) - 4 large eggs - 2 cups milk - 1/2 cup Greek yogurt - 1/4 cup maple syrup - Zest of 1 lemon - 2 tablespoons lemon juice - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg - Butter for greasing - Powdered sugar for dusting (optional) To make this Berry Lemon French Toast Casserole, you need a few key ingredients. The star of the dish is brioche bread. This bread is soft and sweet, perfect for soaking up the egg mixture. You can also use challah if you like a different texture. Next, you will need mixed berries. I love using strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. They add a burst of flavor and color to the dish. You can use fresh or frozen berries, but fresh gives the best taste. Eggs and dairy are essential for the custard base. You will need four large eggs, two cups of milk, and half a cup of Greek yogurt. The yogurt adds creaminess and a hint of tang. For sweeteners and flavorings, grab a quarter cup of maple syrup, lemon zest, lemon juice, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. These ingredients give the casserole a bright and fresh taste. Lastly, don’t forget the spices! You will need a teaspoon of cinnamon and a quarter teaspoon of nutmeg. These spices add warmth and depth to the dish. If you want to add a special touch, consider optional garnishes like powdered sugar or more fresh berries on top. These little extras make your casserole look and taste amazing. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter. This step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy. - Mixing the Egg Mixture In a large bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, and 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt. Add 1/4 cup of maple syrup for sweetness. Then mix in the zest of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. Whisk until smooth and well blended. - Layering Ingredients Layer half of the cubed brioche bread in the bottom of your baking dish. Spread half of the mixed berries over the bread. You can use strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Pour half of the egg mixture over the bread and berries to coat them evenly. - Baking the Casserole Repeat the layers with the remaining brioche, the rest of the mixed berries, and the rest of the egg mixture. Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, take off the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and the center should feel set. - Serving Instructions Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Slice it into pieces and serve warm. For a special touch, dust with powdered sugar and serve with extra fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup on the side. This makes every bite extra tasty! Tips for Overnight Preparation You can prepare this casserole the night before. Start by mixing your egg mixture and layering the bread and berries in the dish. Cover it with foil and place it in the fridge. This lets the bread soak up the flavors overnight. The next morning, just pop it in the oven. Portion Control Tips When you serve the casserole, cut it into small squares. This way, everyone gets a taste without overdoing it. You can also save leftovers for later. Just store them in the fridge and enjoy them for breakfast or dessert. Ensuring a Golden Brown Top To get that perfect golden top, bake the casserole uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes. You want it to be golden but not burnt. The top should look inviting and crispy. Checking for Doneness To check if it’s done, insert a knife in the center. If it comes out clean, your casserole is ready. If not, give it a few more minutes. It should be set in the middle and not too wobbly. This ensures every bite is delicious. Pro Tips Use Day-Old Bread: Stale brioche absorbs the egg mixture better, resulting in a creamier texture. Add More Flavor: Consider infusing the milk with a bit of lemon extract for an extra citrusy kick. Berry Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal fruits like peaches or cherries for a unique twist. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it fresh in the morning for easy serving. {{image_2}} You can swap the bread type for this casserole. - Different Types of Bread: Brioche is soft and tasty, but try challah or sourdough. Each bread gives a unique flavor. You can even use whole wheat for more fiber. - Alternative Berries: Mixed berries are great, but feel free to change them. Use blackberries, peaches, or even bananas. Each fruit brings a new twist to your dish. Adding flavors can make your casserole even better. - Citrus Variations: Besides lemon, try orange or lime zest. These will brighten the dish and add freshness. Just remember to adjust the juice amounts. - Adding Nuts or Chocolate: For a crunch, add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts. If you love chocolate, sprinkle in some chocolate chips. Both options make the casserole richer and more fun. To keep your Berry Lemon French Toast Casserole fresh, use an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well. Store the casserole in the fridge. It stays good for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. In the freezer, it lasts for about two months. Just remember to label the container with the date. When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warm throughout. If you choose the microwave, cut a slice and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking it often. After reheating, serve the casserole warm. You can add a drizzle of maple syrup or more fresh berries on top. This makes each bite even better! Yes, you can use frozen berries. Just add them straight to the dish. They may release more juice, which makes it a bit saucy. This will still taste great! To make this dish gluten-free, switch brioche bread for gluten-free bread. Check the label to ensure it is certified gluten-free. This change keeps the flavors without gluten. Yes, you can. Use a mix of ground flaxseed and water as an egg replacer. Combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. This will help bind the casserole. Some great toppings include fresh berries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of maple syrup. You can also add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a sweet touch. Nuts add a nice crunch too! Absolutely! Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk. Replace Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt. This keeps the dish creamy and delicious without dairy. This blog post explored how to make a tasty berry lemon French toast casserole. We covered the key ingredients, preparation steps, and valuable tips for success. You learned about variations to suit your taste, how to store leftovers, and how to reheat them perfectly. This dish is versatile and easy to tweak for any preference. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and ingredients. Whether for breakfast or brunch, this casserole is sure to impress. Happy cooking!$