French Toast Casserole is a tasty breakfast dish made with bread soaked in eggs, milk, and cinnamon, then baked until golden. It’s great for feeding a crowd and makes mornings easy.
I love waking up to this warm, sweet smell filling the house. My kids always ask if I made it just for them—yes, they are that good!
If you’re in a hurry, prepare it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning. It’s simple and saves time!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I recommend using day-old bread or slightly stale bread for the best texture, as it soaks up the custard nicely. You can swap with croissants or brioche for extra richness. Fresh bread works but may become too soft.
Eggs and Milk: These create the custard base. I use whole milk for creaminess, but you can substitute with skim milk or almond milk if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free version. Just keep the liquid ratio similar.
Sugar & Spices: Sugar adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg boosts flavor and gives a warm touch. Feel free to add vanilla extract or honey for extra depth.
Butter: A bit of melted butter makes the casserole golden and rich. You can substitute with coconut oil or vegan margarine if needed, but keep in mind it may change the flavor and texture slightly.
How do I assemble the casserole without making a mess?
First, generously spray your baking dish to prevent sticking. Lay the bread evenly to cover the bottom, then pour the custard slowly and evenly over the bread, pressing gently to soak it all in. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb before baking.
How to Make French Toast Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Bread
- 6 cups of day-old bread, sliced or cubed
Custard
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups of milk
- ½ cup of heavy cream (optional)
- ½ cup of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon
For the Topping
- ¼ cup of brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons of butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 35 minutes. Rest time: 10 minutes. Total around 1 hour.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread
Grease a baking dish. Layer the bread slices evenly in the dish. Use cubed or sliced bread as preferred.
2. Make the Custard
Whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until well combined. Pour the mixture evenly over the bread.
3. Let It Rest
Cover and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes or overnight. This helps the bread absorb the custard.
4. Make the Topping
Mix brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole before baking.
5. Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until golden and set.
6. Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Slice and serve with toppings like syrup or fresh fruit if desired.
