Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast

If you’re not making Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast Casserole for breakfast or brunch this weekend, you’re truly missing out! This delightful dish serves a crowd and tastes incredible. The best part? It can be prepared in advance—just cover the baking dish and refrigerate overnight. Perfect for holiday gatherings or lazy Sunday mornings, this recipe combines the rich flavors of cheesecake with the comforting appeal of French toast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply assemble the ingredients the night before and bake in the morning.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of raspberry and cream cheese creates a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it plain, or top with whipped cream, fresh raspberries, and maple syrup for extra indulgence.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for brunches, holidays, or family gatherings; this dish is sure to impress your guests.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Preparing it overnight means less stress in the morning.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather a few essential tools. These items will help you create the perfect Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Nonstick cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: Ideal size for even cooking and serving the casserole.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Ensures a smooth mixture of eggs and liquids for consistent texture.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast:

Bread Base

• nonstick cooking spray
• 1 large loaf crusty sourdough or French bread (cut into 1/2-inch cubes, divided)

Cream Cheese Mixture

• 1 and 1/2 cups (510 g) raspberry preserves (divided)
• 1 8 ounce (227 g) package full-fat cream cheese (cut into 1/2-inch cubes, divided)

Egg Mixture

• 1 cup (227 ml) whole milk (aka full-fat)
• 3/4 cup (170 ml) heavy cream
• 6 large eggs
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 Tablespoons (28 ml) vanilla extract
• 1 cup (213 g) light brown sugar (packed, divided)

Toppings

• maple syrup (for serving)
• whipped cream (for serving)
• fresh raspberries (for serving)
• confectioners’ sugar (for dusting, optional)

How to Make Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Layer the Bread and Preserves

Place half of the bread cubes into the prepared baking dish. Dollop half of the raspberry preserves on top of the bread, then dot with half of the cream cheese cubes. Top with the remaining bread cubes.

Step 3: Mix the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, eggs, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and half of the brown sugar. Beat until well combined.

Step 4: Pour Over Bread Layers

Pour the liquid mixture over the layered bread. Then dollop on the remaining raspberry preserves and dot with any remaining cream cheese. Sprinkle evenly with remaining brown sugar.

Step 5: Refrigerate Overnight

Cover tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.

Step 6: Bake

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Remove casserole from fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 to 30 minutes.

Step 7: Finish Baking

Place in preheated oven covered for 30 minutes. After that, carefully uncover and continue baking for another 30 to 35 minutes or until golden brown and firm in center.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Serve warm! Dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired. Add fresh raspberries, whipped cream, or maple syrup on top to elevate your dish!

How to Serve Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast

Serving your Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast can elevate your breakfast or brunch experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your dish and impress your guests.

Fresh Berries

• Add a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of freshness that complements the cheesecake flavor.

Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds richness and a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the sweet raspberry preserves.

Maple Syrup

• Drizzling warm maple syrup over the top provides a classic sweetness that balances the tanginess of the cream cheese and raspberries.

Confectioners’ Sugar

• A light dusting of confectioners’ sugar gives your French toast an elegant touch and adds a hint of sweetness without overwhelming the flavors.

Mint Leaves

• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing aroma, enhancing the overall presentation.

Ice Cream

• For an indulgent twist, serve with a scoop of vanilla or raspberry ice cream. This turns your dish into a dessert-like treat!

How to Perfect Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast

Perfecting your Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out delightful every time.

• Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread absorbs the custard mixture better, resulting in a creamier texture.
• Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for full-fat cream cheese and organic eggs for richer flavor.
• Chill Overnight: Allowing the dish to sit overnight helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Don’t Skip the Cover: Covering the casserole while baking prevents it from drying out and ensures even cooking.
• Check for Doneness: Ensure it’s golden brown on top but firm in the center before serving for perfect texture.

Best Side Dishes for Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast

Pairing side dishes with your Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon complements the sweet flavors beautifully.
2. Sausage Links: Savory sausage adds protein and balances out the sweetness of the French toast.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens up your plate and adds more color.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit makes for a light, nutritious side.
5. Oven-Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty addition alongside.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers a refreshing contrast.
7. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars can serve as an easy grab-and-go option for busy mornings.
8. Herbed Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread brings healthy fats to your brunch spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the refrigeration: Not letting the casserole sit overnight can result in a soggy texture. Always refrigerate for at least 8 hours to allow flavors to meld and bread to absorb the liquid.
• Using stale bread: Old bread won’t soak up the mixture properly. Choose fresh sourdough or French bread for the best results.
• Overbaking: Baking too long can dry out the casserole. Keep an eye on it and check for a golden-brown color and firmness in the center.
• Neglecting to grease the pan: Failing to spray your baking dish can lead to sticking. Always use nonstick cooking spray or butter to prevent this issue.
• Ignoring serving suggestions: Forgetting toppings like whipped cream or fresh raspberries can make your dish less appealing. Enhance flavor and presentation with these extras!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 15-20 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking often to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping once until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast.

Can I make Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for preparing ahead. Simply assemble it the night before and refrigerate overnight before baking.

What kind of bread works best for this recipe?

A crusty sourdough or French bread is ideal as it holds up well when soaked in the egg mixture.

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of preserves?

Yes, you can substitute frozen raspberries, but consider adding sugar for sweetness if they are tart.

How do I customize my Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast?

You can add different fruit preserves like strawberry or blueberry, or mix in nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon for added flavor.

What toppings pair well with Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast?

Toppings such as whipped cream, maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar enhance both flavor and presentation.

Final Thoughts

Overnight Raspberry Cheesecake French Toast is not just a delicious breakfast; it’s also incredibly versatile! You can customize it with various fruits or toppings based on your preference. Encourage friends and family to try this delightful dish at your next brunch gathering—it’s sure to impress!