French Toast Casserole Recipe

If you love the sweet, comforting flavor of classic French toast, this French toast casserole recipe will become your new favorite. It has all the richness of traditional French toast but is baked in a single dish, making it perfect for serving a crowd. Whether you’re hosting brunch, celebrating a holiday morning, or just want a cozy family breakfast, this recipe is the way to go.

One of the best things about French toast casserole is that you can prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning — ideal for busy mornings or special occasions. With its soft, custardy center and golden, slightly crispy top, this casserole is always a hit. Keep reading for the full recipe, helpful tips, and ways to customize it to your taste!

Ingredients You Will Need

Main Ingredients

• 1 loaf of day-old bread (French bread, brioche, or challah)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 ½ cups milk (or a mix of milk and cream)
• ½ cup sugar (white, brown, or a mix)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• Pinch of salt
  
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Topping

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup cold butter (cut into small pieces)

Optional Add-Ins

• Fresh berries or sliced bananas
• Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts)
• Chocolate chips

How to Make French Toast Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. You can use slightly stale bread for better texture.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Pour Over Bread

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Press down lightly to make sure all the bread is soaked.

Step 4: Chill

Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter with a fork or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 6: Bake

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the soaked bread. Bake for 45–50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and drizzle with maple syrup if desired.

Tips for the Best French Toast Casserole

Choose the Right Bread

Brioche, challah, or French bread works best because they’re sturdy and absorb the custard without getting soggy.

Make It Ahead

You can assemble the casserole the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning.

Add Texture

Sprinkle chopped nuts or granola on top before baking for a crunchy contrast to the soft interior.

Flavor Variations

Try adding orange zest, pumpkin spice, or even cocoa powder to the custard for a unique twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect for a Crowd

Feeds a large group without the need to stand over a stove flipping slices of bread.

Customizable

You can easily adjust the flavors, toppings, and mix-ins to suit your taste.

Minimal Effort

Most of the work is done the night before, leaving you free to relax in the morning.

Comfort Food

Rich, creamy, and full of flavor — this dish feels special but is simple to make.

Storage and Reheating

How to Store

Leftovers can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked casserole in individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Reheating

Warm slices in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.

Nutritional Highlights

• Eggs and milk: Provide protein and calcium.
• Bread: A hearty base that gives energy and fiber (if using whole-grain bread).
• Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg offer antioxidants and warmth without added calories.

Variations to Try

Berry French Toast Casserole

Layer fresh or frozen berries between the bread cubes before adding the custard.

Chocolate Chip Delight

Sprinkle chocolate chips between layers of bread and over the top before baking.

Nutty Crunch

Add chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a crunchy and nutty finish.

Apple Cinnamon

Layer thin apple slices with the bread cubes and increase the cinnamon for a cozy autumn flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Classic

Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar and maple syrup.

Fresh

Top with whipped cream and fresh berries for a light, refreshing touch.

Indulgent

Drizzle with caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt for a decadent dessert version.

FAQs

Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?

Yes, but stale or day-old bread works better because it soaks up the custard without falling apart.

Can I make it without the topping?

Of course! The topping adds texture, but the casserole is still delicious without it.

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk all work well in place of dairy milk.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The top should be golden, and the center should feel set when gently pressed. If unsure, insert a knife into the center — it should come out mostly clean.

Can I reheat it the next day?

Absolutely! Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Why Make French Toast Casserole at Home?

Affordable

Uses ingredients you likely already have at home.

Healthier Options

You can control the amount of sugar and choose whole-grain bread or low-fat milk.

Fun and Easy

A great recipe to make with kids or for a relaxing weekend morning.

Impressive Yet Simple

Looks beautiful on the table but requires minimal effort to prepare.

Related Recipes

• Best Banana Bread Bites Recipe
• Oatmeal Breakfast Bowl: The Ultimate Healthy Start
• French Toast Pizza Bake: A Delicious Twist on Breakfast

Final Thoughts

This French toast casserole recipe is the ultimate solution for a delicious, stress-free breakfast or brunch. It’s easy, customizable, and loved by everyone who tries it. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself and your family, this casserole brings warmth and joy to any table.

Try it with different toppings and flavors to make it your own, and don’t forget to share with friends and family — they’ll thank you for it. Happy baking!

If you’d like, I can also help you create a printable version of this recipe or a fun caption for social media. Let me know!