Name: Homemade French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 5 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 cups brioche or challah bread, cubed; 6 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional); Maple syrup, for serving (optional)

Craving something indulgent yet effortless for your weekend breakfast? Imagine waking up to the smell of cinnamon, vanilla, and warm custard-soaked bread, baked to perfection. This Homemade French Toast Casserole is the answer to cozy mornings, brunch celebrations, or even make-ahead holiday breakfasts.

Unlike your usual stovetop version, this baked French toast is a game-changer. It delivers all the flavors you love — rich custard, golden edges, and a cinnamon-kissed crumb — but in a hands-off format. You prep it the night before, and by morning, it only needs a quick trip in the oven. Whether you’re hosting guests or feeding sleepy kids, this casserole brings comfort to the table.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get the best texture and flavor out of your French Toast Casserole, having the right tools is key:

9×13-inch Baking Dish: This size allows for even cooking and a perfect custard-to-bread ratio. It also creates just the right thickness for each serving.
Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a large bowl for the custard mix and a smaller one for the cinnamon sugar topping.
Whisk: Crucial for incorporating the eggs and dairy smoothly into the custard.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision matters, especially for flavor balance in the custard.
Plastic Wrap or Lid: Essential if you’re preparing the dish overnight, to keep the bread from drying out.

Investing in these basics ensures your casserole comes out tender inside with a satisfyingly crisp top.

Ingredients for the Homemade French Toast Casserole

Each ingredient plays a specific role in creating the flavor and structure of this casserole:

Brioche or Challah Bread: These breads have a soft, fluffy texture that soaks up the custard beautifully without becoming mushy.
Eggs: The foundation of the custard, providing structure and richness.
Whole Milk: Adds creaminess and body to the custard.
Heavy Cream: Elevates the richness and provides a silky finish.
Granulated Sugar: Lightly sweetens the base and helps balance the eggy flavor.
Brown Sugar: Adds a warm, molasses depth to the topping.
Cinnamon: The warm spice that makes every bite comforting.
Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavor with a soft, sweet aroma.
Butter: Melted into the topping, it helps crisp up the top and adds a toasty flavor.
Powdered Sugar (optional): For dusting before serving.
Maple Syrup (optional): To drizzle for a perfect finish.

How To Make the Homemade French Toast Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Bread Base

Cut your brioche or challah bread into 1-inch cubes and layer them evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Let the bread sit uncovered for 15 minutes to slightly dry — this helps it absorb the custard without getting soggy.

Step 2: Whisk the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until fully combined and smooth.

Step 3: Pour and Soak

Evenly pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes. Lightly press down with a spatula to make sure the bread is well-soaked. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mix generously over the top of the soaked casserole. Drizzle with melted butter for that bakery-style crust.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden and crisp.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Let it cool slightly before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

Serving and Storing Homemade French Toast Casserole

This casserole is best served warm, straight from the oven when the top is still crisp and the custard interior is soft and fragrant. Cut generous squares and serve with powdered sugar or a pour of warm maple syrup for a decadent touch. It pairs perfectly with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla Greek yogurt for balance.

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm the entire dish in a 300°F oven until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What bread works best for French toast casserole?

Brioche, challah, or any rich, eggy bread works best. They absorb the custard well and hold their shape after baking.

Can I prepare this the same morning?

Yes, although overnight soaking gives the best texture. If you’re in a rush, soak the bread for at least 30 minutes before baking.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute plant-based milk and cream (like almond milk and coconut cream) and use dairy-free butter.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes. Freeze in portions once baked and cooled. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

How do I know when it’s fully baked?

The center should be set and not jiggle when you shake the dish. A knife inserted should come out mostly clean.

Can I add mix-ins?

Definitely! Try chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit like blueberries or diced apples for extra flavor and texture.

Want More Breakfast Casserole Ideas?

If breakfast casseroles make your mornings easier and tastier, you’ll want to check out a few more favorites from my kitchen. The Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole adds a savory veggie twist for those who crave a balance of indulgence and comfort. Or try the Sloppy Joe Casserole if you want something heartier and packed with classic flavors.

For sweeter paths, I highly recommend my Moist Apple Crumble Coffee Cake — it has that same tender texture and cinnamon warmth you love in French toast casseroles. The Cinnamon Donut Bread is another must-bake if you’re into soft slices with a sugar-kissed crust.

Craving a savory yet creamy combination? The Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup makes a great pairing or cozy side on cooler mornings.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this recipe to your brunch or holiday breakfast boards. Just click the Pin button and keep it handy.

And when you make it, let me know how it turned out! Did you try it with fresh berries? Did you go heavy on the cinnamon sugar crust? Share your take in the comments below — I’d love to see what you came up with.

Looking for more comforting breakfast ideas? Follow along on my Pinterest board at LadyPlate where I share new recipes daily.