That’s where this casserole-style French toast comes in. It can be quickly assembled in the morning, or even the night before, before being baked off and served by the slice. This version has a punch of lemon zest in the rich custard and lots of bright blueberries throughout. Use fresh blueberries in the summer when they’re in season. But other times of year, frozen berries are a fine swap. (Don’t thaw frozen berries; adding them while still frozen helps prevent them from coloring the casserole too much.)

A Crispy and Creamy French Toast Casserole

A sprinkle of sugar and dots of butter on top mimic the look, feel, and flavor of crispy pan-fried French toast, while the casserole underneath is all about that irresistible creamy custard center.

More Brunch Recipes for a Crowd

Easy Baked French Toast Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Sausage Breakfast Casserole Snickerdoodle Coffee Cake Zucchini Breakfast Casserole

Cinnamon swirl breadCinnamon raisin breadHawaiian rollsBrioche

Other Fruits To Try in This Casserole

RaspberriesStrawberriesRaisinsCurrantsCranberries (sweetened and dried, or fresh if you like a tart pop)

Baking, Freezing, and Reheating French Toast Casserole

The fully cooked casserole can be frozen, although it’s better when freshly baked. However, if you have leftovers to freeze, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil. Defrost the individual slices in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave using the defrost setting. Heat till just warmed through in the microwave. If using frozen blueberries, add them to the casserole while still frozen (do not thaw). This helps prevent the berries from coloring the casserole too much. Leftovers will keep, refrigerated, for about 1 week and can be reheated in the microwave.