Description
French Toast Casserole is a warm, custardy, make-ahead breakfast dish with a crispy golden top and rich cinnamon-vanilla flavor, perfect for cozy brunches and family mornings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf of day-old bread (approximately 14–16 ounces)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for greasing the dish)
- Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Tear the loaf of bread into bite-sized pieces and spread them evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread in the dish. Gently press down the bread to ensure all pieces soak up the mixture.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
- When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
- Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Add toppings as desired.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for best texture—fresh bread may become soggy.
- Let the casserole soak overnight for a richer flavor and texture.
- Customize with ingredients like cream cheese, chocolate chips, or diced fruits.
- For vegan or gluten-free diets, use plant-based milk, egg substitutes, and gluten-free bread.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour soak or overnight)
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
Keywords: French Toast Casserole, breakfast bake, make-ahead brunch, cinnamon vanilla casserole, easy breakfast recipe