Name: French Toast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 a loaf of French bread (about 8 oz), cut into cubes; 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for topping); Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting); 6 eggs; 2 cups milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons cinnamon, divided; 1/2 cup butter (about 1 stick); 1 cup packed brown sugar

Jump to Recipe· 4.6 from 104 reviews

Transform your breakfast routine with the ultimate comfort food: French Toast Casserole. This scrumptious dish combines the classic flavors of traditional French toast with an easy-to-bake casserole form that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a lazy weekend morning.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortlessly Delicious: With minimal preparation, this casserole delivers all the comforting flavors of French toast with half the effort.
Perfect for Gatherings: Serve this dish at brunches and watch it disappear in no time, making it ideal for entertaining family and friends.
Customizable: Tailor it to your taste or dietary needs with ease, ensuring everyone around the table is satisfied.
Make Ahead Friendly: Prepared in advance, it’s a lifesaver for those busy mornings or stress-free holiday feasts.

French Toast Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This delightful French Toast Casserole doesn’t require a ton of ingredients, but each one brings something special to the table. From the rich and creamy milk to the robust flavor of vanilla, every component plays its part in creating a breakfast masterpiece.

French Bread: Choose a sturdy bread, preferably a touch dry, to soak up all that delicious custard goodness.
Butter: Adds richness and depth, and is key for that irresistibly caramelized base.
Brown Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a dessert-like lusciousness.
Eggs: Essential for the custard, giving structure and a creamy texture.
Milk: The base liquid that blends all the flavors together seamlessly.
Vanilla Extract: Elevates the sweet notes, adding warmth and balance.
Cinnamon: This spice adds a classic touch of warmth and complexity.
Powdered Sugar: An optional yet delightful dusting for a finishing touch.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Flexibility is the name of the game with this recipe. It’s wonderfully adaptable so you can make it your own, catering to your taste buds or dietary preferences. Let your creativity take the lead!

Gluten-Free: Simply swap regular bread for a gluten-free variety to ensure everyone can indulge.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil and a plant-based milk like almond or soy for a lactose-free version.
Berry Boost: Add fresh or frozen berries before baking for a burst of fruitiness with each bite.

How to Make French Toast Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter a 13×9 inch baking pan generously, as this not only prevents sticking but also adds an extra layer of flavor.

Step 2: Create the Caramel Base

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter and gradually incorporate the brown sugar until it reaches a smooth, luscious consistency. Pour this mixture evenly over the bottom of your prepared baking dish, ready to set the stage for your French Toast Casserole.

Step 3: Arrange and Pour

Layer the bread cubes evenly over the caramel base. In a separate bowl, whisk together your eggs, milk, vanilla, and half of the cinnamon until well blended. Pour this custardy goodness over your bread layers, ensuring each piece is fully coated for optimal absorption.

Step 4: Sprinkle and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon and a bit more brown sugar over the top for that final touch of sweetness and spice. Slide into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and the aroma in your kitchen is irresistible.

Pro Tips for Making French Toast Casserole

Bread Selection: Use day-old bread for the best texture—fresh bread can become too soggy.
Overnight Prep: For extra flavor and ease, assemble your casserole the night before to let the flavors meld.
Baking Consistency: Rotate your pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking and browning.
Sweetness Control: Adjust the sugar levels to suit your taste—just remember that powdered sugar on top will add a final touch of sweetness.

How to Serve French Toast Casserole

Garnishes

Top your freshly baked casserole with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of pure maple syrup. For a touch of luxury, add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh berries—it’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds.

Side Dishes

This hearty main pairs beautifully with crispy bacon or savory sausage, offering a delightful contrast to the sweet flavors. A side of fresh fruit salad will add a refreshing, light balance to the richness of the casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut into generous squares and serve on a stunning platter with garnishes artfully arranged around each piece. Alternatively, give each guest a personal portion in a mini casserole dish for a charming and personalized touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, simply cover the casserole with foil or transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, allowing for countless moments of breakfast joy.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the casserole by placing it in a freezer-friendly dish. Wrap it tightly in both plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep well for up to three months. Perfect for planning ahead or when you want to keep some breakfast love in reserve!

Reheating

To reheat, simply place your leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Retain the original crispness by removing the foil for the last ten minutes. Enjoy just as fresh as the first bite!

FAQs

Can I prepare the casserole the night before?

Absolutely! Preparing your French Toast Casserole the night before allows the flavors to meld beautifully, yielding an even more delicious outcome. Simply keep it refrigerated and pop it in the oven in the morning.
What type of bread works best for this casserole?

French bread is my go-to choice due to its texture and ability to soak up the custard. Other great options include sourdough, brioche, or Italian bread, especially when slightly stale to avoid sogginess.
Can I make this casserole gluten or dairy-free?

Definitely! Gluten-free bread works perfectly, and you can substitute dairy products with coconut oil and a plant-based milk to suit your dietary preferences.
Is it possible to make a smaller version of this recipe?

Certainly. Halve the ingredients and use a smaller baking dish, like an 8×8 inch pan, maintaining the same delicious flavors in a portion suitable for fewer people.

Final Thoughts

This French Toast Casserole is more than just a dish – it’s an experience, one that promises to fill your morning with warmth and joy. I invite you to try it out and watch as it becomes a beloved staple in your home.