This French toast casserole transforms a classic breakfast favorite into a simple, make‑ahead dish. It’s soft and custardy inside with a lightly crisp top, and the flavors of cinnamon and vanilla make it feel like a special treat. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just want an easy morning meal, this casserole delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Bread (day‑old or slightly stale works best)
Eggs
Milk or plant‑based milk
Sugar
Vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon
Salt
Butter (melted)
Optional: maple syrup or powdered sugar for serving
Optional: fruit (berries, bananas) or nuts
Directions
Preheat the oven and lightly grease a baking dish.
Cut the bread into cubes and place them evenly in the prepared dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Pour the egg mixture over the bread, pressing the bread down gently so it soaks up the custard.
Drizzle melted butter over the top.
If using, sprinkle fruit or nuts over the casserole.
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes so the bread absorbs the liquid.
Bake until the custard is set and the top is golden.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Serve warm with maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
Servings and timing
Serves about 6–8 people. Prep time: 15 minutes Bake time: 35–45 minutes Total time: 50–60 minutes
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or place the casserole dish back in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. If the casserole dries a bit after storing, add a splash of milk before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use any type of bread?
Yes, thick, sturdy bread like challah, brioche, or French bread works best. Slightly stale bread soaks up the custard more effectively.
Can I make this the night before?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight before baking in the morning.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this casserole is vegetarian. If you want it vegan, use plant‑based milk and an egg substitute.
Can I add fruit?
Absolutely. Berries, sliced apples, or bananas are tasty additions.
How do I make it gluten‑free?
Use gluten‑free bread to make the casserole gluten‑free.
Can I add nuts?
Yes, chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add a nice texture and flavor.
What toppings go well with French toast casserole?
Maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or a dollop of yogurt are all great options.
Why is my casserole soggy in the middle?
Make sure the bread is well coated and bake long enough so the custard sets fully in the center.
Can I make it dairy‑free?
Yes, substitute dairy milk with plant‑based milk and use dairy‑free butter.
How can I make it sweeter or less sweet?
Adjust the amount of sugar in the custard to suit your taste.
Conclusion
French toast casserole is a comforting, crowd‑pleasing breakfast that’s easy to prepare and versatile in flavor. With simple ingredients and flexible add‑ins, it’s perfect for holidays, weekends, or whenever you want a warm, satisfying start to your day. Enjoy it fresh from the oven with your favorite toppings.
A comforting and easy-to-make French toast casserole with a rich custard base, warm cinnamon flavor, and a golden top. Perfect for make-ahead breakfasts and feeding a crowd.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:45 minutes
Total Time:60 minutes
Yield:6–8 servings
Category:Breakfast
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 loaf day-old bread (challah, brioche, or French bread), cut into cubes
6 large eggs
2 cups milk or plant-based milk
1/3 cup sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Optional: 1/2 cup fresh berries, banana slices, or chopped nuts
Optional: maple syrup or powdered sugar, for serving
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Place cubed bread evenly in the prepared dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
Pour the egg mixture over the bread, gently pressing the bread down to absorb the custard.
Drizzle melted butter over the top of the casserole.
If using, sprinkle fruit or nuts over the top.
Let the casserole sit for 10–15 minutes to soak up the mixture.
Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Serve warm with maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired.
Notes
Use slightly stale bread for best results — it absorbs the custard better.Can be assembled the night before and baked in the morning.Add fruit or nuts for extra flavor and texture.Adjust sweetness by changing the sugar amount to your preference.Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of milk if needed.
