If you are looking to start your day with a warm, comforting dish that feels like a hug in food form, then this French Toast Casserole with Raisins Recipe is absolutely for you. Imagine cubes of buttery brioche soaking up a rich custard infused with vanilla and coconut sugar, then baked to golden perfection with plump, chewy raisins scattered throughout. It’s a perfect harmony of sweet, soft, and slightly crisp textures that make breakfast feel special without any fuss. Whether for a weekend brunch or a cozy gathering, this casserole is as delightful to make as it is to savor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients laid out on a white marbled surface, including a white bowl filled with white eggs in the top right corner. Next to it on the left is a white baking pan filled with small, light yellow bread cubes. Surrounding these are small white bowls: one holds dark brown raisins, another has a light brown sugar with a wooden spoon inside, a third bowl contains a creamy white liquid, and a fourth bowl holds a dark brown liquid. There is also a small white bowl filled with coarse white salt. The overall scene is bright with natural light, and the ingredients are neatly arranged. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but essential for creating the magic of this casserole. Each one plays a role in crafting the texture, sweetness, and flavor depth that make this dish stand out.

Brioche bread or French bread, 12 cups (cut into cubes): Soft, buttery bread that absorbs the custard beautifully for a tender bite.
Large eggs, 8: Create the rich custard base binding the whole casserole.
Almond milk, 2 cups: Adds creaminess and light sweetness, a wonderful non-dairy substitute.
Vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons: Infuses warm aromatic notes that elevate the flavor.
Coconut sugar, 1/2 cup: Delivers a subtle caramel sweetness and adds a lovely golden hue.
Raisins, 1/2 cup: Offer bursts of natural sweetness and a chewy texture contrast.
Powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon: For a delicate dusting that finishes the dish beautifully.
Maple syrup (for topping): Provides that classic syrupy richness when serving.
Whipped cream (for topping): Adds a light, fluffy indulgence that complements the warm casserole.

How to Make French Toast Casserole with Raisins Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Bread

Begin by greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter to ensure your casserole won’t stick and gets that perfect golden crust on the edges. Next, cut your brioche or French bread into bite-sized cubes—this is important because smaller pieces soak up the custard evenly, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor and custard richness.

Step 2: Mix the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together 8 large eggs, 2 cups of almond milk, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup of coconut sugar. This custard mixture is what transforms the bread cubes into that dreamy, soft French toast texture. Make sure it’s blended smoothly so every cube can soak up that sweet, creamy goodness perfectly.

Step 3: Combine and Refrigerate

Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes in your prepared dish, then sprinkle 1/2 cup of raisins on top. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours or even better, overnight. This step is crucial because it allows the bread to absorb all the custard flavors. Skipping this will risk having scrambled egg bits in your bake, and nobody wants that!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

When ready, preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the casserole for 40 to 50 minutes, checking at the 40-minute mark so you don’t overdo it. You’re aiming for golden edges and a custard set inside. Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar for a subtle sweetness and charming presentation.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm, topped with luscious maple syrup and fluffy whipped cream. The raisins throughout add natural bursts of sweetness, making this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

How to Serve French Toast Casserole with Raisins Recipe

A close-up of a baked bread pudding in a white rectangular baking dish with a black rim. The dish is filled with golden-brown, toasted bread pieces mixed with dark brown raisins, creating a textured top layer dusted lightly with powdered sugar. Four dollops of white whipped cream are spread unevenly across the surface, adding softness to the crunchy texture. The setting includes a white marbled surface with a beige cloth nearby, a small bowl of raisins, and a white plate with gold-toned cutlery partly visible at the top right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar brightens the look and adds a touch of chewiness. Maple syrup drizzled generously creates a sweet silky finish, while a dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and richness, balancing the warmth of the casserole perfectly.

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, consider fresh fruit salad or a vibrant berry compote on the side; the tartness contrasts beautifully with the sweet casserole. For a savory balance, crispy bacon or sausage can add a deliciously smoky counterpoint.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive brunch, serve the French Toast Casserole with Raisins Recipe in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. Alternatively, sprinkle chopped nuts like toasted pecans on top before baking for extra crunch. Adding a splash of citrus zest to the custard can also bring a bright, unexpected flavor twist that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld even more after sitting, making reheated portions just as delightful as fresh.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed, which makes for a convenient, stress-free breakfast option.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in the oven at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method keeps the texture close to fresh-baked, with a lovely crisp on the edges. Microwave reheating is faster but can make the casserole a bit soggy.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?

Absolutely! Regular dairy milk works perfectly in this French Toast Casserole with Raisins Recipe and will give it a creamier texture, though almond milk keeps it lighter and adds a subtle nutty note.

Is it okay to use other dried fruits instead of raisins?

Yes, feel free to swap raisins with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even dried cherries. Each will add a unique flavor profile, but raisins are classic and provide that perfect chewy sweetness.

Why do I have to refrigerate the casserole before baking?

Refrigerating allows the bread cubes to soak up all the custard, resulting in a uniform, creamy texture rather than having pockets of uncooked egg. This step is key to achieving the authentic French toast casserole consistency.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free bread to keep all the deliciousness but without gluten. Just make sure your bread is sturdy enough to hold up during soaking and baking.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming soggy?

Using brioche or French bread that’s a day or two old helps it absorb the custard without turning mushy. Also, don’t skip the chilling step, and be sure the bake time allows the custard to set fully for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

This French Toast Casserole with Raisins Recipe is truly a treasure to have in your breakfast repertoire. The ease of preparation combined with its comforting flavors makes it an ideal dish to gather around any morning. So go ahead and indulge a little—your taste buds and your loved ones will thank you!