Tiramisu French Toast Casserole Bake with Sweet Cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is everything you love about tiramisu—espresso, mascarpone, creamy layers—with a warm, custard-soaked French toast base. It’s elegant yet easy, make-ahead friendly, and guaranteed to impress. The sweet cream layer takes it over the top, making each bite rich, smooth, and unforgettable.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the French toast casserole:

• Brioche or challah bread, cubed
• Eggs
• Whole milk or half-and-half
• Heavy cream
• Granulated sugar
• Instant espresso powder or strong brewed espresso
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon (optional)
• Salt

For the sweet cream layer:

• Mascarpone cheese
• Cream cheese, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Heavy cream or milk
• Vanilla extract

Optional toppings:

• Cocoa powder (for dusting)
• Chocolate shavings
• Whipped cream
• Maple syrup (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Spread cubed bread evenly in the dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, espresso powder, vanilla, cinnamon (if using), and salt.
3. Pour the espresso custard over the bread cubes. Press down lightly so the bread absorbs the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
5. While the casserole bakes, prepare the sweet cream. In a bowl, beat together mascarpone, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and a splash of cream until smooth and fluffy.
6. Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes after baking, then spread or dollop the sweet cream layer on top.
7. Dust with cocoa powder and add chocolate shavings, if desired.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature with additional whipped cream or syrup if preferred.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8 to 10 people. Prep time is about 20 minutes, plus soak time (minimum 30 minutes or overnight). Bake time is 40–45 minutes, with 10 minutes to cool before serving.

Variations

• Boozy Tiramisu: Add a splash of coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) or dark rum to the custard for an adult twist.
• Mocha Flavor: Mix a bit of cocoa powder into the espresso custard.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts or almonds over the top before baking.
• Layered Version: Alternate layers of bread and sweet cream before baking for more tiramisu flavor in each bite.
• Chocolate Chips: Add mini chocolate chips between the bread layers for added texture and richness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1–2 minutes. For best texture, reheat in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 10–15 minutes. You can also freeze the baked casserole (without the sweet cream topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and add the sweet cream before serving.

FAQs

What kind of bread is best for this casserole?

Brioche or challah is ideal—they’re rich and soft but sturdy enough to absorb the custard.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the night before, refrigerate overnight, and bake in the morning.

Do I have to use mascarpone?

Mascarpone gives the authentic tiramisu flavor, but you can use more cream cheese as a substitute in a pinch.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes, it can be enjoyed warm or chilled, similar to traditional tiramisu.

Is this very sweet?

It’s moderately sweet. You can adjust the sugar in both the custard and cream layers to your preference.

Can I use real brewed espresso?

Yes, just make sure it’s strong and cooled before adding it to the custard mixture.

Can I skip the sweet cream topping?

Yes, but the sweet cream adds that signature tiramisu flavor and creamy texture.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The top will be golden, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze without the cream topping, then thaw and reheat before adding the topping.

What can I serve with this casserole?

Serve it with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a hot cup of coffee for a complete brunch experience.

Conclusion

Tiramisu French toast casserole bake with sweet cream is the perfect blend of breakfast and dessert, bringing the iconic flavors of tiramisu into a warm, baked French toast format. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to elevate your morning routine, this indulgent casserole is sure to impress.

Tiramisu French Toast Casserole Bake with Sweet Cream

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Tiramisu French toast casserole bake with sweet cream is a decadent, coffee-flavored breakfast dish inspired by the classic Italian dessert. Layers of custard-soaked brioche and creamy mascarpone topping make this a show-stopping addition to brunch or holiday mornings.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes (including soak)
• Yield: 8–10 servings
• Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Instructions

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Add cubed bread evenly across the bottom.
2. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugar, espresso powder or coffee, vanilla, cinnamon (if using), and salt until well combined.
3. Pour the custard over the bread cubes, pressing down gently. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
5. While baking, make the sweet cream: Beat mascarpone, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream until smooth and fluffy.
6. Let casserole cool for 10 minutes. Spread or dollop the sweet cream on top.
7. Dust with cocoa powder, add chocolate shavings, and serve with whipped cream or syrup if desired.

Notes

• Let the casserole sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before baking if chilled overnight.
• Use cooled espresso or coffee to avoid cooking the eggs prematurely in the custard.
• For a more authentic tiramisu flavor, add a splash of coffee liqueur to the custard.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/10 of casserole
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 270mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: undefined
• Trans Fat: undefined
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 180mg