Name: Homemade French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf (14-16 oz) day-old brioche or challah, cut into 1-inch cubes 8 large eggs 2 cups whole milk; 0.5 cup heavy cream; 0.75 cup granulated sugar 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 0.5 cup light brown sugar; 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted Powdered sugar or maple syrup, for serving

Golden, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet, this Homemade French Toast Casserole is a cozy crowd-pleaser. It bakes up soft in the center with crisp, cinnamon-sugar tops—ideal for brunches, holidays, or lazy weekends. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping ahead for guests, this casserole delivers all the comfort of traditional French toast with far less fuss.

What makes it so delightful? The rich custard soaks into every cube of bread overnight, ensuring flavor-packed bites throughout. Plus, the crunchy brown sugar topping gives it just enough texture contrast. Add a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, and you have a breakfast that feels special without being complicated.

What Kind of Bread Should I Use?

Brioche or challah bread are top choices for their soft, rich crumb that holds up well to soaking. Stale or day-old bread works best because it absorbs more of the custard without falling apart. If you’re in a pinch, a French baguette or thick-cut white bread can also do the job.

Ingredients for the Homemade French Toast Casserole

1 loaf (14-16 oz) day-old brioche or challah, cut into 1-inch cubes
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Powdered sugar or maple syrup, for serving

How To Make the Homemade French Toast Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Base

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the cubed bread evenly in it. Lightly press the bread down to ensure a level surface.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring every piece is soaked. Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least 4 hours.

Step 3: Add the Topping

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and melted butter until it forms a paste. Drop spoonfuls over the top of the casserole.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and the center is set. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup.

How to Serve and Store Homemade French Toast Casserole

Serve it warm, straight from the oven, with your favorite toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, or maple syrup. If you’re preparing ahead, it reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave without drying out.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic and foil; it can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes! Almond, oat, or soy milk work well, though the casserole may be slightly less rich.

What if I don’t have time to refrigerate overnight?

Refrigerating for at least 4 hours is recommended, but even 1 hour is better than none. Just press the bread down well to help it soak faster.

Can I add fruit or nuts?

Absolutely. Blueberries, raspberries, or chopped pecans make excellent additions.

Can I prep and freeze it before baking?

Yes, assemble the casserole without the topping, freeze it, then thaw overnight and add topping before baking.

How do I make it less sweet?

Reduce the sugar in the custard to 1/2 cup and use less topping if desired.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Use two 9×13 pans or one extra-large baking dish, and extend baking time slightly.

Want More Breakfast Casserole Ideas?

If you love this cozy French toast casserole, you might also enjoy these other comforting breakfast dishes:

Nutella French Toast Casserole for a chocolatey twist.
Cottage Cheese Egg Bake for a protein-packed start to the day.
The Ultimate Homemade McGriddle for a fast-food favorite made at home.
Raspberry Crescent Rolls with a sweet, tangy center.
Cinnamon Donut Bread for a sliceable morning treat.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest brunch board so you can find it again for holiday mornings or weekend guests.

And if you try it, I’d love to hear how yours turned out. Did you add fresh fruit? Did you go light on the sugar or make it extra decadent?

Drop your experience in the comments! I’m always excited to see how everyone personalizes these dishes. For more everyday favorites and fresh ideas, check out my Pinterest: Nina Dishes.

Homemade French Toast Casserole

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 10 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This cozy Homemade French Toast Casserole is baked golden with a soft custard-soaked center and crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping. Perfect for holiday mornings, brunch parties, or lazy weekends, it’s easy to prepare ahead and feeds a crowd with minimal effort.

Instructions

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the cubed bread evenly in it. Lightly press the bread down to ensure a level surface.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread. Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least 4 hours.

3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and melted butter until it forms a paste. Drop spoonfuls over the top of the casserole.

4. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and center is set. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup.