Description
This Homemade French Toast Casserole is a cozy, crowd-pleasing breakfast that layers cubes of soft brioche or challah in a rich, cinnamon-spiced custard. Prepped the night before and baked in the morning, it’s perfect for holidays, brunches, or lazy weekends. Top it with powdered sugar and warm maple syrup for the ultimate finish.
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)
Instructions
1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer cubed bread evenly inside. Let sit uncovered for 15 minutes to dry slightly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press to help bread absorb the liquid. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. When ready to bake, mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the casserole, then drizzle with melted butter.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes or until the center is set and top is golden.
6. Let cool for 5–10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup if desired.
Notes
For best results, use slightly stale bread to help absorb the custard without turning mushy.
Don’t skip the brown sugar topping—it creates a caramelized crust that elevates every bite.
You can add mix-ins like blueberries, chopped pecans, or chocolate chips before baking for added flair.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 180mg