Baked French Toast Casserole

A Cozy Breakfast Classic Made Simple

This baked French toast casserole transforms your favorite breakfast into a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Crispy on top, soft in the center, and packed with cinnamon-vanilla flavor — it’s ideal for weekends, holidays, or make-ahead mornings.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cubed (day-old preferred)

• 6 large eggs

• 2 cups whole milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar

• ⅓ cup brown sugar

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon salt

Topping (Optional but Recommended)

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

• 3 tablespoons cold butter, cubed

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place cubed bread evenly in the dish.

2. Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, both sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. Pour evenly over the bread, pressing lightly to soak all pieces.

3. Chill

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best texture.

4. Add the Topping

Before baking, mix brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a bowl. Cut in the butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over the soaked bread.

5. Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 45–50 minutes until golden and set. Let cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Drizzle with maple syrup or warm berry compote

• Dust with powdered sugar

• Serve with fresh fruit or whipped cream

Why You’ll Love It

• Effortless make-ahead brunch solution

• Great use for leftover bread

• Perfectly balanced soft and crispy textures

• Crowd-pleasing and kid-approved