How To Make The Absolute Best French Toast Casserole Recipe

There's nothing quite like waking up to the warm, comforting aroma of French toast casserole baking in the oven. With its golden, caramelized top and soft, custardy center, this dish turns an ordinary morning into something truly special.

this Recipe

I first made this recipe on a chilly Sunday morning when I wanted something cozy but effortless. The result? A perfectly sweet, cinnamon-infused casserole that quickly became a family favorite. It's easy to prepare the night before, making breakfast a breeze. Let’s dive into what makes this French toast casserole the best.

Why You'll Love This French Toast Casserole

Get ready for a breakfast that will have everyone coming back for seconds. This French toast casserole is the perfect balance of crispy, custardy, and full of warm, spiced flavor.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. Unlike traditional French toast that requires standing by the stove flipping slices, this version comes together in one dish, so you can relax while it bakes.

It’s also perfect for meal prep. Assemble everything the night before, pop it in the fridge, and bake it fresh in the morning. This makes it a lifesaver for busy mornings, holidays, or when hosting guests.

The texture is pure perfection. The top gets beautifully golden and slightly crisp, while the inside stays soft and custardy without being soggy. Plus, the brown sugar and cinnamon add just the right amount of sweetness.

Best of all, it's endlessly customizable. Whether you love classic cinnamon and vanilla, want to add fresh fruit, or prefer a richer version with cream cheese, this recipe adapts to your tastes.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this casserole lies in the quality and balance of its ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the ultimate French toast experience.

Bread is the foundation of this dish. Brioche and challah work best because of their slightly sweet flavor and soft yet sturdy texture. Day-old bread is ideal, as it absorbs the custard mixture without becoming too mushy.

Eggs and milk create the rich custard that soaks into the bread. Using a combination of whole milk and heavy cream gives the casserole a luxuriously creamy consistency. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or just use whole milk.

Cinnamon and vanilla extract bring warmth and depth of flavor. A full tablespoon of cinnamon ensures every bite is packed with cozy spice, while pure vanilla extract enhances the sweetness.

Brown sugar and butter create a caramelized, slightly crisp topping. As the casserole bakes, the sugar melts into the butter, forming a deliciously sweet crust.

For best results, use a 9x13-inch baking dish, which allows for even cooking and the perfect custard-to-bread ratio.

How To Make This French Toast Casserole

Making this casserole is as simple as layering, mixing, and baking. The hardest part is waiting for it to be ready.

Start by prepping your bread. Cut the brioche or challah into cubes and spread them evenly in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. If the bread is fresh, let it sit out for an hour to dry slightly—this helps it absorb the custard better.

Next, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This custard mixture should be smooth and well combined. Slowly pour it over the bread, ensuring every piece is coated. Use a spoon or spatula to gently press down, helping the bread soak up the liquid.

For the topping, mix brown sugar and melted butter until combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole, creating a caramelized crust as it bakes. If you’re making this ahead of time, cover the dish and refrigerate overnight.

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set but still slightly soft. If you prefer a firmer texture, bake for an additional five minutes.

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the custard to fully set, making it easier to slice. Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries for the perfect finishing touch.

Storage Options

This French toast casserole stores beautifully, making it a great option for leftovers.

To refrigerate, let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to three days.

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers or wrap the entire casserole in foil and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or bake in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Adding a drizzle of maple syrup before reheating helps keep it moist.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible, so you can tailor it to your taste or dietary needs.

For a richer version, add dollops of softened cream cheese between the bread cubes before pouring over the custard. This creates pockets of creamy, tangy goodness in every bite.

If you love fruit, try mixing in fresh berries, sliced bananas, or chopped apples before baking. They add natural sweetness and a burst of flavor.

For a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking. They toast beautifully in the oven and add a satisfying texture.

Want a dairy-free option? Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk instead of whole milk and cream, and swap out the butter for melted coconut oil. The result is just as delicious.

For a fun seasonal twist, mix pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice into the custard during fall months, or add a splash of bourbon or rum extract for a boozy holiday treat.

With so many ways to customize this French toast casserole, you’ll never get bored. Try your own spin and discover your perfect version!

Print