French Toast Casserole is like a warm hug on a chilly morning—a dish that brings the cozy vibes of a lazy weekend right into your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or looking for an easy make-ahead breakfast to feed a crowd, this casserole is a game-changer.
Layers of fluffy bread soak up a creamy, spiced custard and bake into golden, caramelized perfection, crowned with a buttery, cinnamon-sugar crumble that melts in your mouth. It’s everything you love about classic French toast, minus the flipping and fuss.
Here’s the best part: you can assemble it the night before, letting the flavors meld beautifully as you sleep. In the morning, just pop it in the oven. It’s hands-off, foolproof, and always impressive.
No wonder searches for “overnight breakfast recipes” skyrocket during the holidays.
Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)
- It’s a Time Saver: Prepping the night before means stress-free mornings, perfect for busy holidays or family get-togethers.
- The Flavor is Incredible: The custard soaks into the bread, creating a dessert-like texture that’s irresistible.
- Customizable for Everyone: I’ve added everything from fresh berries to chocolate chips, and it’s always a hit.
- It Feeds a Crowd: No need to stand by the stove flipping toast—this serves plenty with minimal effort.
- It’s Pure Comfort Food: The aroma of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through the house? Magic.
French Toast Bake Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Medium Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Plastic Wrap
- Resealable Plastic Bag
- Pastry cutter
- Oven
Ingredients
- French Toast
- 1 loaf sourdough bread or brioche, challah or French bread
- 8 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup sugar
- Topping
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter cut into pieces
Instructions
- Cut bread into 1-inch cubes and arrange evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Whisk eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla, and sugar in a bowl, then pour over the bread.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- For the topping, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl; cut in butter until crumbly.
- Place the topping in a resealable bag and refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F when ready to bake.
- Sprinkle the prepared topping evenly over the bread.
- Bake, uncovered, for 45-60 minutes, adjusting for your desired texture.
