Sourdough French Toast Casserole is the ultimate breakfast dish that combines the tangy flavor of sourdough bread with a creamy custard. This delightful baked casserole is not only easy to prepare, but it also offers the perfect way to start your day. Whether you’re hosting brunch or treating yourself to a cozy breakfast, this recipe is a sure winner! The layers of soft bread, eggs, and milk transform into a comforting meal that can be enjoyed warm, especially when topped with a sweet berry compote. Let’s dive into making this incredible dish!

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough French Toast Casserole

This Sourdough French Toast Casserole is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile and appealing for various reasons. Firstly, it’s an Easy Sourdough French Toast Casserole that you can prepare the night before, making mornings a breeze. Secondly, its creamy custard base pairs beautifully with the slightly tangy bread, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Additionally, it’s an ideal dish for family gatherings or brunch parties, inviting everyone to indulge in its deliciousness. The use of fresh berries elevates the dish, offering a burst of freshness and color. Health-conscious eaters will appreciate that it can be adapted to be a Healthy Sourdough French Toast Casserole, while those with dietary restrictions can enjoy variations like a Vegan Sourdough French Toast Casserole. Lastly, it’s a creative way to use leftover sourdough bread!

Ingredients for Sourdough French Toast Casserole

Gather these items:

1 loaf (approximately 1.1 lbs) sourdough bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
6 large eggs
2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp salt
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened, for greasing
2 cups (approximately 10.6 oz) mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar (for compote)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
2 tbsp water
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Maple syrup (optional)

How to Make Sourdough French Toast Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with softened butter and arrange the sourdough bread cubes evenly in the dish.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the sourdough bread cubes. Gently press down on the bread to ensure all pieces are soaked. Let stand for at least 10 minutes or refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor.
Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, until the surface is golden brown and the interior is set.
Step 5: While the casserole bakes, prepare the berry compote by combining mixed berries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and water in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until the berries break down and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Remove the baked casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving warm topped with berry compote and optional garnishes like powdered sugar or maple syrup.

Pro Tips for the Best Sourdough French Toast Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Use stale sourdough bread for better absorption of the custard.
Refrigerating overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Feel free to mix in other fruits or nuts to personalize your casserole.
For a fluffier texture, beat the eggs separately before adding them to the mixture.
This dish can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free sourdough bread.

Best Ways to Serve Sourdough French Toast Casserole

This casserole can be served in various delightful ways. For a classic touch, drizzle with warm maple syrup. If you’re feeling adventurous, pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-like experience. For a fruity twist, the Sourdough French Toast Casserole with Berries can be garnished with fresh mint or additional berries on top.

How to Store and Reheat Sourdough French Toast Casserole

To store any leftovers, simply cover the casserole with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This makes it a perfect option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Sourdough French Toast Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Sourdough French Toast Casserole?

The secret lies in using stale sourdough bread, which absorbs the custard mixture better and results in a rich, custardy texture. You can also let it sit overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.

Can I make Sourdough French Toast Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for overnight preparation. Just assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning, making it an ideal choice for brunch gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sourdough French Toast Casserole?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that you allow enough soaking time for the bread cubes in the custard mixture. Also, watch the baking time to prevent it from becoming too dry.

Variations of Sourdough French Toast Casserole You Can Try

There are so many fun twists you can put on the classic recipe. Try adding chocolate chips for a decadent touch, or substitute the mixed berries with seasonal fruits for a fresh taste. For a Vegan Sourdough French Toast Casserole, replace eggs with a mixture of silken tofu and plant-based milk. If you prefer a savory option, consider omitting the sugar and adding cheese and herbs for a unique breakfast experience!

For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out our breakfast category or try our perfect scrambled eggs recipe!

Additionally, if you’re interested in exploring more about the health benefits of sourdough, visit Healthline for detailed insights.