Make your mornings special with the rich, comforting taste of French Toast Casserole baked golden in one delicious dish. This easy breakfast classic brings cozy, indulgent flavor to the table.
French Toast Casserole blends sweet cinnamon, creamy vanilla, and buttery brown sugar in each bite—perfect for weekends, holidays, or whenever you’re craving something warm and satisfying.
What You’ll Need for This Irresistible French Toast Casserole
- French bread – Slightly stale cubes soak up the custard beautifully, delivering the ideal texture between soft and crisp.
- Butter – Melted with brown sugar to create a luscious, caramel-like base layer.
- Brown sugar – Adds deep molasses sweetness that caramelizes while baking.
- Eggs – Essential for creating a rich custard that binds everything together.
- Milk – Adds creaminess and body to the custard mixture.
- Vanilla extract – Infuses the casserole with a warm, aromatic note.
- Cinnamon – The spice that defines French toast—used generously for comforting flavor.
- Brown sugar (for topping) – A light sprinkle adds a sweet, crunchy finish.
- Powdered sugar (optional) – A snowy dusting for added sweetness and visual appeal.
How to Make French Toast Casserole: A Simple Overview
Start by preparing a buttery brown sugar sauce and spreading it on the bottom of your baking dish. Layer the cubed French bread over this sweet foundation.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon to make a smooth custard. Pour the mixture evenly over the bread, making sure it’s fully soaked.
Top with a little extra cinnamon and brown sugar for a golden, flavorful crust. Bake until puffed and golden brown. Serve warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar.
Cozy Tips & Delicious Twists for Your Casserole
Day-old French bread is best—it holds up beautifully to the custard without turning soggy. If you don’t have time to let it dry overnight, a quick toast in the oven helps.
For a festive twist, add chopped pecans or sliced bananas between the layers. A handful of fresh berries can brighten it up too. Want it extra decadent? Swap milk with half-and-half or add a splash of maple syrup to the custard.
This dish is also perfect for overnight prep. Assemble everything the night before and bake in the morning—ideal for brunches and holidays when you’d rather sip coffee than cook.
Storing Leftovers Like a Pro
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before covering tightly and placing it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to four days. Reheat portions in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual slices.
For longer storage, freeze the cooled casserole wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven uncovered to restore that delicious golden top.
French Toast Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon divided
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar for topping
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups whole milk
- Powdered sugar optional, for garnish
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 6 large eggs
- ½ loaf French bread approximately 8 oz, cubed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish; set it aside.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely, then incorporate the brown sugar, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully blended. Evenly spread this syrupy layer across the base of the prepared baking dish.
- Distribute the cubed French bread over the brown sugar-butter mixture, ensuring a uniform layer.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs together with the milk, vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until fully combined. Pour this custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring thorough saturation.
- Sprinkle the remaining teaspoon of cinnamon along with the tablespoon of brown sugar across the top.
- Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top develops a golden-brown crust.
- Remove from the oven and, if desired, finish with a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.