Name: Sourdough French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 loaf Soft Sourdough Bread (*2 pound loaf, see Note #1 for 1/2 batch portions); 3 cups whole milk; 1/3 cup butter (*plus 1 tablespoon for greasing baking dish); 1 tablespoon almond extract (*see Note #2 for flavor variations); 2 teaspoons cinnamon; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt (); 6 large eggs; 1 1/2 cups blueberries (*either fresh or frozen)

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Sourdough French Toast Casserole is a delicious balance of textures and flavors. The top layer bakes to a beautifully golden, crispy finish, while the bottom stays soft and custardy, soaking up all the sweet, creamy goodness. Bursting with juicy blueberries and a bold almond flavor reminiscent of a bear claw, this dish is surprisingly easy to make. Using Soft Sourdough Bread adds just the right amount of tang and structure, making it an ideal choice for an indulgent breakfast or brunch treat.

Two servings of Baked Sourdough French Toast drizzled with maple syrup sitting beside a blue baking dish filled with the casserole.

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Golden Sourdough Bread Casserole with blueberries and maple syrup sits on gray plates atop a white marble surface.

What Makes Sourdough Perfect for French Toast Casserole

Sourdough bread brings a unique tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the custard, making it a standout choice for French toast casserole. Using Soft Sourdough Bread takes it a step further. Its airy texture soaks up the custard beautifully, creating a perfectly creamy bottom layer while still holding its shape. The best part, the crispy top drizzled with maple syrup is pure bliss.

Ingredients Needed

Soft Sourdough Bread– Brings a tangy flavor, soaks up the custard, and bakes into a creamy base with a crispy top.
Whole Milk– Whole milk provides the creamy base for the custard, giving the casserole its rich, silky texture. Its fat content ensures a luscious consistency that absorbs beautifully into the sourdough.
Butter– Melted butter adds rich flavor and moisture to the custard while helping to create a golden, crisp top as it bakes.
Almond Extract– This bold extract infuses the casserole with a nutty, aromatic sweetness reminiscent of a bakery-style bear claw.
Cinnamon– Cinnamon brings warmth and a subtle spice, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the other ingredients. It adds depth and coziness to each bite.
Sugar– Sugar sweetens the custard and helps caramelize the top layer, enhancing both the flavor and the golden-brown finish.
Salt– A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and highlights the tangy, complex flavors of the sourdough and almond extract. It’s the hidden hero of the dish.
Eggs– Eggs are the backbone of the custard, binding the mixture and giving the casserole its creamy, custard-like structure.
Blueberries– Bursting with natural sweetness and a touch of tartness, blueberries add vibrant flavor and pops of juiciness throughout the casserole, making each bite delightfully fresh and fruity.

How To Make

Preheat oven to 350℉ and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cut bread into 1-inch cubes, spread in the dish, and sprinkle blueberries on top.
Heat milk and butter in a saucepan until melted, then let cool slightly.
Whisk almond extract, cinnamon, sugar, salt, and eggs in a bowl, then mix in the cooled milk.
Pour custard over the bread, pressing down to soak evenly.
Bake for 45 minutes until golden and set.
Cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Overhead photo of French Toast Casserole with Sourdough Bread resting on a metal trivet.

Variations

Fruit Variations– Try raspberries, blackberries, diced apples, or even a mix of fruits for a burst of color and flavor.
Add a Nutty Crunch– Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts or slivered almonds on top before baking for added texture.
Spice Variations– Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, allspice or even ginger to the custard for a cozy, spiced twist.
Chocolate Twist– Dollop Nutella over the top of the casserole or toss in chocolate chips for an indulgent treat.
Brighten with Lemon– Add spoonfuls of lemon curd before baking for a bright citrus flavor, or mix a teaspoon of lemon zest into the custard for a refreshing twist.
Extract Variations– Replace almond extract with vanilla, maple, or even coconut extract for a new flavor profile.

Storage

To store Sourdough French Toast Casserole, let it cool completely to room temperature. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the casserole to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in the oven at 325℉ until heated through, or microwave individual servings as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What toppings go well with Sourdough French Toast Casserole?

Here’s a list of toppings that pair beautifully with Sourdough French Toast Casserole:

Sweet Syrups– Classic maple syrup, honey, or fruit syrups like blueberry or raspberry.
Fresh Fruits– Sliced bananas, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, or diced apples.
Whipped Cream– Homemade or store-bought for a creamy touch.
Powdered Sugar– A light dusting for a touch of sweetness and elegance.
Nuts– Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for a crunchy contrast.
Spreads– Nut butter, lemon curd, or Nutella for added richness.
Yogurt– A dollop of Greek yogurt or flavored yogurt for a creamy and tangy option.
Caramel Sauce– For a rich, buttery sweetness.
Fruit Compotes– Warm blueberry, strawberry, or apple compote for a cozy, flavorful addition.

Can this casserole be made ahead of time?

Yes, Sourdough French Toast Casserole can be made ahead! Assemble it the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, uncover, let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes and bake as directed. This make-ahead option is ideal for busy mornings or when hosting a brunch!

Do I need to let the casserole rest before baking?

No, letting the Sourdough French Toast Casserole rest before baking isn’t necessary, as it will still turn out fabulous without it! However, if you have extra time, a 15-30 minute rest (or overnight in the refrigerator) can help the bread absorb the custard more fully, enhancing the texture and flavor. Either way, it’s a delicious.

How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

If you’re concerned about drying out leftovers when reheating, cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 325℉ for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For individual portions, microwave on medium power in 30-second increments to avoid overcooking. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can also help keep the casserole moist and delicious.

Can I use other types of bread other than sourdough?

For a softer bread replacement in French Toast Casserole, brioche and challah are top choices, thanks to their rich, tender textures that soak up custard beautifully. Soft French bread or white sandwich bread offer neutral flavors, while Hawaiian bread adds a hint of sweetness. For extra flair, try cinnamon swirl bread.

What is the best way to get the perfectly crispy and custardy texture?

To achieve the perfect balance of crispy and custardy texture in your Sourdough French Toast Casserole, follow these tips:

Ensure all the bread cubes are evenly soaked by pressing them gently into the custard after pouring it over the bread.
Using a shallow 9×13-inch dish promotes even baking, allowing the top to crisp while the custard sets.
Bake uncovered for the entire time to let the top develop a golden, slightly crispy crust while the inside remains soft and custardy.