Baked French Toast Casserole is a comforting breakfast dish that combines soft, custardy bread with warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Layers of bread soak up a rich mixture of eggs, milk, and vanilla, then bake to golden perfection, creating a fluffy and slightly crispy top that everyone loves.
I always enjoy making this casserole for weekend mornings when I want something easy but special. One of my favorite parts is how it can be prepared the night before, making busy mornings so much smoother. I like to add a sprinkle of brown sugar or a handful of fresh berries on top just before baking to give it a little extra sweetness and color.
Serving it warm, straight from the oven with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar feels like a little morning treat. It’s perfect for sharing with family or friends, and I’ve found it’s a great way to get everyone excited about breakfast without spending hours in the kitchen. This casserole always brings back cozy, happy mornings at home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brioche or Challah Bread: These breads soak up the custard beautifully and add a lovely richness. If you can’t find them, thick sliced white bread or sourdough work well too. Just avoid super soft breads that might get mushy.
Milk or Half-and-Half: Using half-and-half makes the custard extra creamy, but whole milk is a great lighter alternative. For dairy-free, try almond or oat milk, but the texture may be a bit different.
Eggs: Eggs are essential for the custard that holds the casserole together. Large eggs are best; they add structure and richness. No good substitute here, but plant-based options exist if needed.
Vanilla Extract and Spices: Vanilla adds warmth and depth. Cinnamon is classic, and a pinch of nutmeg gives a nice hint of spice. If you’re short on nutmeg, just cinnamon is fine.
Butter: Melting butter and drizzling it on top helps create a crispy, golden surface. You can swap for margarine or coconut oil if preferred, but butter’s flavor is unbeatable here.
How Do You Get the Perfect Soak and Crisp on a Baked French Toast Casserole?
The secret is giving the bread enough time to soak up the custard mixture and baking it just right.
- Press the egg mixture into the bread gently so it absorbs well before baking.
- Refrigerate the casserole for at least 4 hours or overnight. This soaking step helps every piece become custardy inside.
- When baking, start covered with foil to lock in moisture, then remove the foil near the end to brown and crisp the top.
- Letting it rest a little before serving helps the custard set, making it easier to cut and taste great.
Following these steps will give you a casserole that is soft and creamy inside with a slightly crunchy, golden crust on top. It’s a wonderful texture combo that everyone will enjoy!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for even baking and easy serving.
- Mixing bowl – where you whisk together eggs, milk, and spices smoothly.
- Whisk – helps combine the custard ingredients without lumps.
- Rubber spatula – great for pressing the egg mixture into the bread cubes.
- Aluminum foil – covers the casserole during baking to keep it moist.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add fresh or frozen berries for a burst of tartness and color.
- Stir in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch and nuttiness.
- Mix in chocolate chips for a touch of sweetness; great for kids.
- Swap vanilla for almond extract for a different but lovely aroma.
Baked French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread (about 12 oz), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation, plus at least 4 hours (or overnight) of chilling time to let the bread soak up the custard. Baking takes about 50-55 minutes, including covered and uncovered stages. Plan for about 5 to 6 hours total if you refrigerate overnight.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread and Custard Mixture:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Cut the brioche or challah bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them evenly in the dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk (or half-and-half), sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt until fully blended.
2. Combine and Soak:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Use a spatula to gently press the bread down so it soaks up the custard well. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight. This soaking step is key for a soft and custardy texture.
3. Bake the Casserole:
When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Bake the casserole covered with foil for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup and dust with powdered sugar if you like. Serve warm and enjoy a comforting breakfast treat!
Can I Use Day-Old or Stale Bread for This Recipe?
Yes! Day-old or slightly stale bread works best because it soaks up the custard without becoming too mushy. If your bread is fresh, consider toasting the cubes lightly before assembling.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! Preparing it the night before and refrigerating allows the bread to soak up all the flavors, making it even more delicious and saving time in the morning.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving to maintain a soft texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, swap the milk or half-and-half for your favorite plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter substitute. The texture will be slightly different but still tasty!
