How To Make The Absolute Best French Toast Casserole Recipe

There's nothing quite like waking up to the sweet, cinnamon-kissed aroma of French Toast Casserole baking in the oven. This dish takes everything you love about classic French toast and transforms it into an easy, make-ahead breakfast that’s perfect for lazy weekends, holiday mornings, or special brunch gatherings.

this Recipe

I first made this casserole on a chilly winter morning when I wanted something warm and comforting without spending too much time flipping individual slices of French toast. What started as a last-minute experiment quickly became a household favorite! Now, every time I make it, the golden, custardy bread with its caramelized topping disappears within minutes.

Why You'll Love This French Toast Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with a breakfast dish that is as effortless as it is indulgent.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. Unlike traditional French toast, which requires flipping each slice on the stovetop, this version allows you to assemble everything in a single dish and let the oven do the work.

It’s also perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the casserole the night before and simply bake it in the morning, making it ideal for busy families or hosting guests.

Another reason to adore this dish? It’s versatile! Whether you prefer classic cinnamon and vanilla flavors, a burst of fresh berries, or a drizzle of maple syrup, you can customize it to your taste.

And let’s not forget—it’s a crowd-pleaser. Soft, custardy bread with a crispy, caramelized topping? It’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of French Toast Casserole lies in its simple, yet carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in delivering that perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Bread is the foundation of this dish. I recommend using a slightly stale brioche, challah, or French bread. These breads soak up the custard beautifully without turning mushy. If your bread is fresh, leave it out overnight or toast it lightly before using.

For the custard, a mixture of eggs, milk, and heavy cream creates a rich, velvety base. I prefer using whole milk combined with a splash of heavy cream for the best texture.

A generous amount of cinnamon and vanilla extract infuses warmth and depth into every bite. If you love extra spice, a pinch of nutmeg can add even more richness.

The brown sugar and butter topping is what makes this casserole truly irresistible. As it bakes, the topping caramelizes, creating a crisp, sweet layer on top of the soft, custardy bread.

If you want to add some texture, chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled over the top will add a delightful crunch!

How To Make This French Toast Casserole

Making this French Toast Casserole is as simple as mixing, layering, and baking. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by greasing a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Then, cut your bread into cubes—about 1-inch pieces work best—and spread them evenly in the dish.

Next, prepare the custard mixture. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Pour this rich mixture over the bread, ensuring all the pieces are well-coated. If you have time, let it sit for 10-15 minutes (or overnight in the fridge) to allow the bread to fully absorb the flavors.

For the irresistible topping, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and chopped nuts (if using) in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.

Now, it’s time to bake! Place the dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp. If you like a softer casserole, bake it for a shorter time; for a firmer, crunchier top, leave it in a bit longer.

Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the custard to set properly, making each bite even more delicious.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can store them easily.

For short-term storage, cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To freeze, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen servings can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat.

To reheat, simply pop a portion into the microwave for about 30-40 seconds, or warm the entire dish in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is! Here are some creative ways to make it your own:

If you want a fruitier twist, add fresh berries, sliced bananas, or diced apples to the bread before pouring over the custard. The fruit caramelizes beautifully as it bakes.

For a savory-sweet option, try incorporating crumbled bacon or breakfast sausage into the casserole. The salty contrast pairs incredibly well with the sweet custard.

Need a dairy-free version? Substitute almond milk or oat milk for regular milk, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Replace butter with melted coconut oil.

If you’re avoiding refined sugar, swap out brown sugar for maple syrup or coconut sugar. The result will be just as delicious, with a deeper caramel-like flavor.

For a festive touch, mix in pumpkin spice and a bit of canned pumpkin during the fall months, or stir in chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.

Experiment with your favorite flavors and textures to make this dish uniquely yours!

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