Baked French Toast Casserole
Some breakfasts are meant to be made in advance — so you can wake up to the smell of something golden baking away. This Baked French Toast Casserole is exactly that kind of morning magic: buttery brioche soaked overnight in a vanilla-cinnamon custard, baked until puffed and crisp at the edges. Prep it the night before, then simply bake while the coffee brews. Cozy, easy, and absolutely irresistible.
💡 If you loved our Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, you’ll adore this make-ahead version of sweet holiday comfort.
Baked French Toast Casserole
Equipment
- 9×13 baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Plastic wrap or foil
Ingredients
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread cubed (about 10 cups)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk or half and half for richer texture
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Optional: powdered sugar and fresh berries for serving
Instructions
Prep the bread:
- Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish. Add cubed brioche bread.
Make the custard:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
Combine:
- Pour custard evenly over the bread. Gently press the bread so it soaks in the mixture.
Chill:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Uncover and bake for 40–45 minutes until the top is golden and the center is set.
Serve:
- Drizzle with melted butter and dust with powdered sugar before serving warm with berries or maple syrup.
Notes
🧊 Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to revive the crisp edges.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Try a blueberry or apple filling layer for a festive twist.
- Swap brioche for croissants for extra richness.
- Drizzle with cream cheese icing for dessert-style brunch.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit and a cup of Creamy Peppermint Hot Cocoa for a complete holiday breakfast.
It also pairs beautifully with Gingerbread Pancakes with Maple Syrup for a brunch buffet spread.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5–10 minutes to restore crispness.
💬 The cozy breakfast you prep at night and wake up to.
— From The Recipe Host: Where flavor feels like home.
