Description
This Baked French Toast Casserole is your secret to a delicious, stress-free morning! Packed with cinnamon-spiced custard, golden-baked bread, and a rich, caramelized topping, it’s the ultimate make-ahead breakfast that’s perfect for weekends, holidays, or meal prep. Pop it in the oven, pour a cup of coffee, and start your day with a warm slice of comfort.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf challah, brioche, or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (preferably stale)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar (for topping)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
Instructions
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cut bread into 1-inch cubes and lightly toast if fresh.
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt.
- Layer the bread evenly in the baking dish. Pour the custard mixture over the bread. Press gently to submerge. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight or at least 4 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar to form a topping paste.
- Remove casserole from fridge, uncover, and spread topping over the surface.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes until golden and set. Tent with foil if top browns too quickly.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with maple syrup, whipped cream, or fruit!
Notes
Customize with chocolate chips, berries, or nuts. Use gluten-free bread if needed. Leftovers keep in the fridge for 3–4 days or can be frozen. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual slices.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
Keywords: french toast casserole, make-ahead breakfast, baked french toast, easy brunch, overnight casserole