Description
Start your morning right with this Irresistible French Toast Casserole—a baked breakfast classic perfect for holidays, brunches, or cozy weekends. This easy recipe features buttery brioche cubes soaked in a rich cinnamon-vanilla custard and topped with a sweet, crunchy cinnamon sugar crust. Whether you’re looking for quick breakfast ideas, easy recipes for a crowd, or make-ahead brunch dishes, this casserole delivers both comfort and convenience in every bite.
Ingredients
1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cubed
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
4 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
1. Cube the bread into 1-inch pieces. If fresh, leave it out for a few hours or lightly toast to dry it.
2. Whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl until well combined.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add the cubed bread. Pour custard mixture evenly over the bread and press down lightly. Let sit for 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight.
4. Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter for the topping. Sprinkle it evenly over the casserole.
5. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes, until golden brown and center is set. Cover with foil if top browns too quickly.
6. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serve with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or berries.
Notes
Use day-old or toasted bread to avoid a soggy texture.
Overnight refrigeration enhances flavor and texture.
Sprinkle topping just before baking for the best crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: easy recipe, french toast casserole, breakfast ideas, holiday brunch, make-ahead breakfast