Easy French Toast Casserole

This Easy French Toast Casserole combines the classic flavors of French toast with the convenience of a make-ahead casserole. Perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping for busy mornings, this dish is rich, comforting, and deliciously satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Crowds: Great for brunch gatherings, holidays, or family breakfasts.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the night before for a stress-free morning.
• Customizable: Add fruits, nuts, or other toppings to make it your own.
• Comfort Food: The creamy, spiced custard and buttery topping make it irresistible.
• Minimal Effort: Simple ingredients and easy steps make this a beginner-friendly recipe.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Casserole:

• 1 loaf French bread, cut into cubes
• 8 eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Directions

Prepare the Casserole:

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
3. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are well soaked.
4. Let the mixture sit for at least 1 hour, or cover and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.

Add the Topping:

5. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon until crumbly.
6. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.

Bake:

7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Bake the casserole for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

Serve:

9. Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
10. Optionally, top with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries for added sweetness.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings

Variations

• Add Fruit: Mix in sliced bananas, blueberries, or chopped apples before baking.
• Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the topping for added texture.
• Savory Twist: Omit the sugar and cinnamon, then add cheese and cooked sausage for a savory breakfast bake.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk and coconut cream for the milk and heavy cream. Use plant-based butter for the topping.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cloves or cardamom for extra warmth and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 30–60 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of bread?

Yes, challah, brioche, or even day-old sandwich bread works well.

2. What’s the best way to ensure the bread soaks up the custard?

Press down on the bread gently after pouring the custard to help it absorb evenly.

3. Can I skip the overnight refrigeration step?

Yes, but letting it sit overnight enhances the flavor and texture.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread as a substitute.

5. Can I prepare this without the topping?

Yes, but the topping adds sweetness and texture. Try a sprinkle of powdered sugar if skipping it.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Use two 9×13-inch pans and bake them simultaneously.

7. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming soggy?

Use slightly stale bread and avoid over-soaking the bread in the custard.

8. Can I use a sugar substitute?

Yes, replace sugar with your preferred sugar substitute for a lower-calorie version.

9. What side dishes pair well with this?

Serve with bacon, sausage, or a fruit salad for a complete breakfast spread.

10. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! The sweet and soft texture makes it a favorite among kids.

Conclusion

Easy French Toast Casserole is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast or brunch dish. With its creamy custard, spiced flavors, and buttery topping, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or a cozy weekend morning, this casserole is simple to prepare and a delight to serve. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings for a truly indulgent start to the day!

Easy French Toast Casserole

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• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Easy French Toast Casserole is a crowd-pleasing breakfast or brunch dish! Made with fluffy French bread, a rich custard, and a sweet, cinnamon-sugar topping, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for a stress-free morning.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

For the Casserole:

• 1 loaf French bread, cut into cubes
• 8 eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

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Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Baking Dish:

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the dish.

2️⃣ Make the Custard:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
2. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are soaked.

3️⃣ Chill:

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it sit for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator.

4️⃣ Prepare the Topping:

1. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon until crumbly.
2. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.

5️⃣ Bake:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.

6️⃣ Serve:

• Serve warm with optional maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar for added sweetness.

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Notes

• Bread Options: Substitute with brioche, challah, or any sturdy bread.
• Add-Ins: Try mixing in raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips for added flavor.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before and bake fresh in the morning.