Ingredients

16 slices white bread

½ cup raspberry or cranberry preserves

1.5 pounds thinly sliced ham

8 slices swiss cheese

¼ cup honey mustard

8 large eggs

1¼ cup half and half

1 cup sour cream

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon pepper

1½ cup shredded white cheddar or gruyere cheese

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Fresh sage and/or rosemary for garnish (optional)

Nonstick baking spray

For serving: maple syrup, fresh raspberries, raspberry preserves (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Spray a 9”x13” baking pan with nonstick baking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Spread raspberry or cranberry preserves on 8 slices of bread. Layer each slice with ham and swiss cheese. Spread honey mustard on the remaining 8 slices and place these mustard-side down on top of the ham layers to form sandwiches. Slice each sandwich diagonally into quarters.

Step 3: Arrange the sandwich quarters pointed-side up, stacking them in the prepared baking pan.

Step 4: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half and half, sour cream, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the stacked sandwiches. Sprinkle shredded white cheddar or gruyere cheese on top. Cover the pan and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld.

Step 5: Preheat the oven to 350 °F. Remove the casserole from the fridge and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and lightly browned.

Step 6: Once baked, dust the casserole with powdered sugar and, if desired, garnish with fresh sage or rosemary.

Step 7: Serve warm with maple syrup, fresh raspberries, and additional preserves for dipping or drizzling.

Tips & Variations

Use gruyere cheese for a nuttier flavor or white cheddar for a sharper bite.

For a gluten-free option, substitute the white bread with your favorite gluten-free bread.

Adding a pinch of nutmeg to the custard blend enhances warmth and depth.

Make sure to refrigerate overnight; this helps the bread soak up the custard fully for a rich texture.

Top with fresh herbs like sage or rosemary right before serving for an aromatic finish.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole the morning of serving instead of overnight?

Yes, you can let the casserole sit for a few hours if short on time, but refrigerating overnight allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, resulting in a richer texture and flavor.

Can I use other types of preserves or mustards?

Absolutely. Raspberry or cranberry preserves offer the best balance of sweet and tart, but apricot or strawberry preserves also work well. Similarly, feel free to use Dijon or whole-grain mustard if you prefer a different mustard flavor.