This French Toast Casserole is like a warm hug on a plate! Soft bread soaked in a sweet egg mixture, baked until golden and fluffy, makes breakfast feel super special.
Honestly, it’s a total lifesaver for brunch! Just mix, bake, and enjoy. I love serving it with syrup and fresh fruit—perfect for lazy weekends with family or friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Day-old Bread: I love using challah or brioche for their sweetness and texture. You can use any bread you have, like French or sourdough. If gluten-free is needed, try a gluten-free bread, just make sure it’s hearty enough to hold the egg mixture.
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for richness. If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, consider using flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) or a commercial egg replacer.
Milk and Cream: Whole milk and heavy cream create a creamy texture. Feel free to use non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream. The flavor will change, but it’s still delicious!
Granulated Sugar: If you’re reducing sugar, try using less or substituting with honey or maple syrup. Just remember to reduce the liquid slightly if you’re using a liquid sweetener.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices bring warmth and flavor. You can skip nutmeg if you don’t have it, and if you love spice, try adding a bit of cardamom for extra depth.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Soaked?
Getting the bread properly soaked is crucial for a creamy and soft casserole. Make sure to follow these steps:
- Use day-old bread so it can absorb the liquid without becoming mushy.
- After pouring the egg mixture over the bread, press down gently on the bread cubes to help them soak up the custard.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best for maximum absorption.
This helps create the perfect texture—soft on the inside with a beautiful topping! Enjoy the ease of making this ahead of time.
How to Make French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf of day-old bread (like challah, brioche, or French bread), cut into 1-inch cubes (about 8 cups)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Powdered sugar, for garnish
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Fresh strawberries or other fruit, optional for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious French Toast Casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time, followed by at least 1 hour to chill, preferably overnight, and about 55 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’ll need around 2 hours before it’s ready to serve, making it the perfect dish to prepare ahead of time for your brunch gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Assemble the Bread:
Spread the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish, ensuring even distribution for a nice, fluffy texture.
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Mix until well combined and frothy.
4. Combine the Egg Mixture with Bread:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cubed bread. Press the bread down lightly with your hands to ensure all pieces are soaked thoroughly.
5. Chilling Time:
Cover the casserole with foil and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, refrigerate it overnight. This helps the bread absorb the custard fully, enhancing the flavor and texture.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Before baking, drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole, adding richness and flavor.
7. Bake:
Bake the casserole covered with foil for 30 minutes to allow it to set. After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to serve and lets the flavors settle.
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Dust slices with powdered sugar for a sweet touch and serve with maple syrup, a pat of butter, and fresh fruit if desired. Enjoy your wonderfully soft and delicious French Toast Casserole!
This dish is perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy family breakfast, merging the warmth of classic French toast with the convenience of a baked casserole. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Bread Instead of Day-Old?
While day-old bread works best for absorbing the egg mixture, you can use fresh bread. Just let it sit out for a few hours to dry out a bit, or lightly toast it in the oven for a few minutes to reduce moisture.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it the next morning. This makes it perfect for brunch gatherings!
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with additional whole milk or use a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or coconut cream. Just be aware that it may alter the final texture slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy it again for breakfast or a sweet snack!