French Toast Casserole Recipe
This French Toast Casserole is an easy make-ahead breakfast made with cubes of bread soaked in a rich cinnamon-vanilla custard and baked until golden with a buttery, caramelized topping. It's perfect for holidays, weekend brunches, or feeding a crowd with minimal morning prep.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Small saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Bread knife
- Rubber Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread or brioche about 14-16 ounces, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Brown Sugar Base
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
Topping
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Powdered sugar for serving (optional)
- Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar until smooth and glossy, then pour the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the bread cubes evenly over the brown sugar layer.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined. Slowly pour the custard over the bread, pressing the cubes down gently so they absorb the mixture.
- If time allows, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for a richer, more custardy texture.
- Sprinkle the remaining brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the top.
- Bake until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and the center is set. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with warm maple syrup if desired.
