Go Back

French Toast Casserole

A warm, custardy, cinnamon-scented breakfast that feeds a crowd, perfect for lazy weekends or special occasions.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 48 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 3 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 loaf day-old brioche, challah, or French bread, cut into 1 to 1.5 inch cubes Use day-old bread for best results.
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half Whole milk or half-and-half gives a rich flavor.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream Optional for extra richness.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Sweetness is flexible.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon Cinnamon is classic, but feel free to add other spices.
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter Plus more for greasing the pan.
Optional Toppings
  • powdered sugar For dusting.
  • warm maple syrup For serving.
  • fresh berries For serving.
  • chopped pecans For serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Grease a 9x13 baking dish with butter. Add the bread cubes in an even layer.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
  3. Pour the custard evenly over the bread. Press down gently so every piece soaks up the mixture.
  4. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
Baking
  1. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Uncover the dish.
  2. Bake for 40 to 48 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set but still a little custardy.
  3. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use day-old bread for best results. Cover leftovers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months.