Name: How To Make The Absolute Best French Toast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf of French bread (cubed); 6 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; ½ cup heavy cream; ½ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup brown sugar; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp cinnamon; ¼ tsp nutmeg; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 tsp cinnamon; ¼ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)

There's nothing better than waking up to the comforting aroma of warm cinnamon and vanilla drifting through the house. This French Toast Casserole is the perfect way to start your morning with a dish that’s rich, custardy, and topped with a deliciously crisp, golden-brown crust.

I first discovered this recipe when searching for a make-ahead breakfast for a family holiday gathering. I wanted something easy yet indulgent, and after some experimenting, I found the perfect combination of soft, custardy bread and crunchy, caramelized topping. Now, it’s my go-to for brunches, holiday mornings, and lazy weekends alike.

Why You'll Love This French Toast Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite breakfast bake. This French Toast Casserole isn't just delicious – it’s a total game-changer for anyone who loves easy, satisfying meals.

First, it’s incredibly simple to make. You can prep everything the night before, pop it in the fridge, and bake it fresh in the morning. No more early-morning scrambling!

It’s also perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you're hosting a brunch or just feeding a hungry family, this dish easily serves a group without the hassle of flipping individual slices of French toast.

Not to mention, it’s completely customizable. Prefer it extra sweet? Add more brown sugar. Love a little crunch? Toss in some pecans or walnuts. The possibilities are endless!

Best of all, it’s comfort food at its finest. The combination of soft, custardy bread and a crisp, buttery topping makes every bite absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this French Toast Casserole lies in its carefully selected ingredients. Each component contributes to the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Bread is the foundation of this dish, and using the right kind makes all the difference. I recommend day-old brioche, challah, or French bread. These breads soak up the custard beautifully without becoming too soggy.

For the custard, a mixture of eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon creates a rich and flavorful base. The cream adds an extra touch of decadence, while the vanilla and cinnamon infuse the casserole with warmth and depth.

Brown sugar and butter form the sweet, caramelized topping that gives this dish its signature crunch. When baked, the sugar melts into a deliciously crisp layer that contrasts perfectly with the soft, pillowy bread beneath.

A touch of maple syrup enhances the sweetness and complements the cinnamon-spiced custard. If you prefer a little less sweetness, you can adjust the amount to your taste.

Lastly, for extra texture and flavor, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts. They provide a satisfying crunch and a nutty depth that pairs beautifully with the soft, buttery casserole.

How To Make This French Toast Casserole

Making this French Toast Casserole is easier than you might think. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Start by greasing a large baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving later.

Next, cut your bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them evenly in the baking dish. If your bread is fresh, let it sit out for a few hours to dry out slightly—this helps it absorb the custard without becoming too mushy.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring every piece is well-coated. For best results, cover the dish and refrigerate overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the bread to fully soak up the custard.

Before baking, prepare the topping by combining brown sugar, softened butter, and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the soaked bread cubes. If you're adding nuts, now is the time to scatter them over the top.

Bake the casserole in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 40-45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp. If you like a softer texture, bake for closer to 40 minutes; for a firmer, more caramelized finish, go for the full 45.

Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The result? A beautifully golden, custardy French toast bake that’s perfect with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t always guaranteed with this delicious dish!), you’ll be happy to know this French Toast Casserole stores well.

To store, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.

To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for a quick fix or bake in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes for a crispier texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this French Toast Casserole is its versatility. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use a little less sugar in the custard.

For a holiday twist, mix in pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice for a cozy, fall-inspired variation.

Want more texture? Try adding chocolate chips, raisins, or shredded coconut for a fun flavor boost.

To make it dairy-free, swap the milk and cream for almond milk or coconut milk and use dairy-free butter.

However you customize it, this French Toast Casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it once, and you’ll be making it again and again!