why make this recipe

Traditional French Toast Casserole is a delightful dish that combines the classic flavors of French toast into a convenient baked form. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch and is great for serving a crowd. This recipe allows you to prepare everything ahead of time, making mornings easier. Plus, the rich, custardy texture with crispy edges will surely be a hit with family and friends.

how to make Traditional French Toast Casserole

Ingredients:

1 loaf brioche (challah, or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes)
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, pressing the bread down lightly so it absorbs the liquid.
Drizzle the melted butter over the top.
Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
Bake uncovered for 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries.

how to serve Traditional French Toast Casserole

Serve this casserole warm, straight from the oven. It’s delicious drizzled with maple syrup or dusted with powdered sugar. You can also add fresh berries on top for an extra fruity touch. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, holiday breakfasts, or any special occasion.

how to store Traditional French Toast Casserole

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing. Place the casserole in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.

tips to make Traditional French Toast Casserole

Use day-old bread for the best texture.
Let the casserole sit overnight in the fridge before baking to enhance the flavors.
Feel free to add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit.
Adjust the sweetness by decreasing or increasing the sugar based on your taste.

variation

You can create a fruit version by adding sliced bananas or berries to the bread cubes before pouring the custard mixture. A chocolate chip version can include semi-sweet chocolate chips for sweet indulgence.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake the next day.
Can I freeze French Toast Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I substitute for brioche?
Challah and French bread are great alternatives. You can also use any bread that you enjoy, as long as it holds up well when soaked in the custard.

Traditional French Toast Casserole

This traditional French toast casserole is an easy and delicious breakfast or brunch option, perfect for feeding a crowd. It can be prepared the night before, making your morning stress-free.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1

Servings 8 people

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

9x13 inch baking dish
Whisk
Large bowl

Ingredients

Casserole

1 loaf thick-sliced bread such as challah or brioche, cut into 1-inch cubes
8 large eggs
2 cups milk whole or 2%
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
pinch of salt

Topping

1/2 cup butter melted
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Preparation

Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread the bread cubes evenly in it.
Whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Baking

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare the topping by mixing melted butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
Remove casserole from the fridge, sprinkle the topping evenly over the bread, and bake for 40-50 minutes until golden brown.
Let it cool slightly before serving, optionally topped with syrup or fresh fruit.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of orange juice or Grand Marnier to the egg mixture. You can also add berries or sliced bananas layered with the bread cubes before pouring the egg mixture.