If you’re hoping to treat your loved ones to an irresistibly cozy breakfast, you’ll fall head over heels for this Baked French Toast Casserole. Imagine all the best parts of classic French toast—golden, custardy bread and warm cinnamon—transformed into a comforting, make-ahead brunch that’s practically hands-off. The secret? A lush overnight soak that lets the flavors meld and guarantees every bite is plush and decadent. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want an indulgent start to your weekend, this dish promises maximum ease with maximum reward.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of a truly good Baked French Toast Casserole is how a handful of familiar ingredients can create something utterly special. Each one brings its own personality, from the pillowy bread to the sweet, spiced custard and a buttery, crumbly topping. Here’s what you’ll need (plus a few little tips to make yours extra amazing):
- French bread: Stale or day-old bread gives the casserole its perfect structure and keeps it from getting soggy; cut into hearty cubes for great texture.
- Eggs: Eight large eggs guarantee your custard is extra rich and binds everything together beautifully.
- Whole milk: Using whole milk makes for a creamier base and adds body to the custard.
- Heavy cream: Just a bit elevates the casserole with luxurious richness—don’t skip it!
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard without overwhelming the natural vanilla and spice flavors.
- Light brown sugar: Adds a touch of caramel-like depth to both the custard and the crumb topping.
- Vanilla extract: The classic cozy note that pulls the whole flavor profile together.
- Ground cinnamon: Essential for warmth and that familiar French toast aroma.
- Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch delivers deep, bakery-style flavor with every bite.
- Salt: Amplifies the sweetness and balances the richness.
- Unsalted butter: A bit for greasing the baking dish ensures nothing sticks and adds a buttery undertone.
- All-purpose flour (for the topping): Gives the crumb topping its delightful crumble and crunch.
- Packed light brown sugar (for the topping): Melts into a gooey, caramelized crust on top.
- Ground cinnamon (for topping): Echoes the custard’s spice, making every bite fragrant.
- Salt (for topping): Keeps the topping from being too sweet—don’t leave it out!
- Cold unsalted butter (for topping): Cubed butter is the secret to that crumbly, golden finish.
How to Make Baked French Toast Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Bread
Start by generously greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with unsalted butter. This not only prevents sticking but also lends a subtle buttery flavor to the casserole’s base. Next, cut your French bread into thick, hearty 1-inch cubes. Arrange the cubes evenly in the dish, making sure to reach all the corners—those crisp edge pieces are a hidden gem!
Step 2: Whisk the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until thoroughly blended and slightly frothy, ensuring the spices disperse evenly. This mixture is what will transform your bread cubes into that signature, custardy French toast texture.
Step 3: Soak the Bread
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in your baking dish. Use clean hands or a spatula to gently press the bread down, making sure every bit gets a good soak. This step is key for that dreamy, soufflé-like bite we all crave in a Baked French Toast Casserole.
Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight
Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and set it in the fridge to chill overnight, or for at least 6 hours. This extended rest lets the bread absorb all those creamy, sweet, and spiced flavors. It’s the ultimate make-ahead move that gives you effortless mornings and incredible flavor.
Step 5: Prepare the Crumb Topping
When you’re almost ready to bake, mix up the topping. In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, packed brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until everything resembles coarse crumbs. Pop the topping in the fridge to keep it cold until you’re set to bake.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the soaked casserole out of the fridge, remove the cover, and evenly sprinkle the chilled crumb topping over the surface. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed and golden, the topping is crisp, and the middle is just set (check with a knife if you’re unsure). Once out of the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This quick rest makes for cleaner slices and an even custard.
How to Serve Baked French Toast Casserole
Garnishes
Bring your Baked French Toast Casserole to life with a final flourish—think a gentle dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of real maple syrup, or a scattering of fresh berries. If you’re a nut fan, a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts on top offers a lovely crunch and nutty warmth. Every garnish adds its own little sparkle and makes breakfast feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This casserole is front and center at any brunch table, but it’s even better alongside bright sides. Serve it next to crisp bacon or breakfast sausage for a savory-sweet combination, or add a simple fruit salad for a refreshing, juicy contrast. If you want to go the extra mile, a light yogurt parfait pairs beautifully for added creaminess and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For extra wow-factor, bake the casserole in individual ramekins for personalized brunch servings. Or cut the Baked French Toast Casserole into neat squares, stack them on a platter, and set up a toppings bar with syrups, whipped cream, berries, and nuts—perfect for family-style brunches or festive holiday breakfasts. Letting everyone customize their own slice is half the fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover the dish tightly or transfer slices to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, Baked French Toast Casserole stays delicious for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep any toppings separate so they don’t lose their crunch.
Freezing
Baked French Toast Casserole is a dream for freezing. Slice into individual portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, or place in freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a cozy breakfast, let slices thaw overnight in the fridge—or reheat straight from frozen with a little extra time.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm individual servings in the microwave until heated through, or place slices in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes (just cover with foil so the topping doesn’t brown too much). If reheating a larger portion, allow extra time in the oven and check that the center is warmed throughout. Add your favorite toppings just before serving for that just-baked magic!
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of bread for Baked French Toast Casserole?
Absolutely! Brioche or challah makes for even richer, more decadent results—they soak up the custard beautifully and add a buttery depth. Just aim for a sturdy, slightly stale bread so the casserole holds its shape.
Do I have to refrigerate the casserole overnight?
While overnight refrigeration is ideal, you can get by with a minimum of 6 hours. This helps the bread fully absorb the custard and creates that irresistible, custardy texture. If you’re in a big rush, even 2 hours will work, though the end result will be a bit looser.
Can I add fruit or nuts directly into the casserole?
Definitely! Adding fresh berries or sliced bananas adds a delicious burst of flavor, or try mixing in chopped pecans or walnuts for a pleasant crunch. Just sprinkle them throughout the bread layer before pouring on the custard.
How do I know when the casserole is fully baked?
The casserole is done when the top is golden and crisp, and the center is just set but not dry. Insert a knife in the middle—if it comes out mostly clean (a little custard clinging is fine), it’s ready. Let it rest for 10 minutes to firm up for serving.
Can I prep this Baked French Toast Casserole more than a day ahead?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole and topping up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep both well-covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, and sprinkle the topping on right before it goes in the oven.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a breakfast that feels like a warm hug, you absolutely have to try this Baked French Toast Casserole. It’s the epitome of comfort food and makes every morning feel like a special occasion. Gather your favorite people, let the oven do the work, and get ready for rave reviews at your breakfast table!
Print
Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus overnight refrigeration)
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a delightful breakfast treat with this Baked French Toast Casserole. Perfect for a leisurely morning or a special brunch, this make-ahead dish is bursting with flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Topped with a buttery crumble, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal that will please a crowd.
Ingredients
Main Casserole:
- 1 loaf (about 14–16 oz) of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for greasing the dish)
For the topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter and spread the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
- Mix the Custard: Whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pour over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
- Chill Overnight: Cover and refrigerate the casserole and topping separately for at least 6 hours.
- Make the Topping: Combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and butter to form crumbs.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Sprinkle topping over the casserole and bake for 45-55 minutes.
- Serve: Rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch.
- For a richer flavor, use brioche or challah bread instead of French bread.
- Serve with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
