There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of sweet, cinnamon-kissed French toast wafting through the air. This Easy French Toast Casserole is everything you love about traditional French toast, but without the need to stand over a hot stove flipping slices of bread. Perfectly baked with a golden crumbly topping, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday breakfast, a holiday brunch, or simply a way to bring the family together around the table, this recipe is a must-try.
The best part? You can prepare everything the night before, making your morning stress-free and enjoyable. Over the years, this dish has become a family tradition in my home. I still remember one Christmas morning when I first served this casserole, my kids wide-eyed as they saw the golden-brown topping and smelled the maple and vanilla notes filling the air. Every bite brings back those memories of cozy mornings, laughter, and love shared over the breakfast table.
French Toast Casserole takes the classic French toast recipe and gives it a clever twist. Instead of cooking each slice individually, this version bakes a whole batch in the oven, so everyone gets to enjoy their meal at the same time. It’s soft and custardy on the inside, with a deliciously crunchy topping that makes it extra special. It’s a breakfast that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Busy Mornings: Prepping this casserole the night before means your morning is free for coffee, conversation, and enjoying the moment.
- Feeds a Crowd: Whether you’re hosting a big brunch or just want leftovers for the week, this recipe serves a generous crowd.
- Totally Customizable: Add your favorite toppings, spices, or mix-ins to make it your own. From nuts and berries to a drizzle of chocolate syrup, the possibilities are endless.
- Comfort Food Made Simple: It’s like having dessert for breakfast, but with wholesome ingredients that feel just right for starting the day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf (about 15 oz.) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (2% or whole)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- ½ cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
- ⅔ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
How to Make French Toast Casserole
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread:
Start by selecting a sturdy loaf of bread like French bread, sourdough, or brioche. Slice it into 1-inch cubes and spread them evenly in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. This ensures every bite has the perfect texture — crispy on the outside and custardy inside.
2. Make the Custard Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. The custard should have a pale yellow color with a slight froth on top.
3. Combine Bread and Custard:
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently press the bread down, ensuring every piece soaks up the custard. Let the dish sit for a few minutes to absorb, or cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight for a deeper flavor.
4. Prepare the Crumble Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix the cold butter, brown sugar, flour, and salt. Use a fork or pastry cutter to break the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This crumble topping is what gives the casserole its signature crunch and sweetness.
5. Assemble and Chill:
Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the bread and custard mixture. Cover the dish and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step allows the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb all the custardy goodness.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven heats. Bake uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the custard to settle. Serve warm with your favorite toppings — a drizzle of maple syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or fresh berries for a touch of brightness.
Helpful Tips
- Bread Choices: Day-old bread works best because it absorbs the custard without falling apart. Avoid soft, pre-sliced bread as it might turn mushy.
- Add Some Spice: A teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg in the custard adds a warm, spiced flavor.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Mix in chopped pecans or almonds for added crunch, or scatter fresh fruit like blueberries or sliced bananas on top before baking.
- Make It Extra Special: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of your favorite fruit compote for a decadent touch.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours or overnight
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- If freezing, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 299
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 147mg
- Sodium: 183mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 25g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this without heavy cream?
A: Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with additional milk, though the casserole might be slightly less rich.
Q: What other bread can I use?
A: Brioche, sourdough, or challah work beautifully in this recipe. Each adds its unique texture and flavor.
Q: Can I skip the crumble topping?
A: While the crumble adds a wonderful crunch, you can skip it for a simpler dish or replace it with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
Related Recipes
If you loved this French Toast Casserole, try these other breakfast favorites:
Conclusion
This Easy French Toast Casserole is more than just a breakfast recipe; it’s a way to bring people together over something delicious and comforting. With its soft, custardy base and golden, crunchy topping, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Best of all, it’s so simple to make that you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. So why not give it a try this weekend? Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your loved ones will thank you!
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Easy French Toast Casserole
Description
There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of sweet, cinnamon-kissed French toast wafting through the air. This Easy French Toast Casserole is everything you love about traditional French toast, but without the need to stand over a hot stove flipping slices of bread. Perfectly baked with a golden crumbly topping, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday breakfast, a holiday brunch, or simply a way to bring the family together around the table, this recipe is a must-try.
The best part? You can prepare everything the night before, making your morning stress-free and enjoyable. Over the years, this dish has become a family tradition in my home. I still remember one Christmas morning when I first served this casserole, my kids wide-eyed as they saw the golden-brown topping and smelled the maple and vanilla notes filling the air. Every bite brings back those memories of cozy mornings, laughter, and love shared over the breakfast table.
French Toast Casserole takes the classic French toast recipe and gives it a clever twist. Instead of cooking each slice individually, this version bakes a whole batch in the oven, so everyone gets to enjoy their meal at the same time. It’s soft and custardy on the inside, with a deliciously crunchy topping that makes it extra special. It’s a breakfast that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf (about 15 oz.) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (2% or whole)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- ½ cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
- ⅔ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread:
Start by selecting a sturdy loaf of bread like French bread, sourdough, or brioche. Slice it into 1-inch cubes and spread them evenly in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. This ensures every bite has the perfect texture — crispy on the outside and custardy inside.
2. Make the Custard Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. The custard should have a pale yellow color with a slight froth on top.
3. Combine Bread and Custard:
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently press the bread down, ensuring every piece soaks up the custard. Let the dish sit for a few minutes to absorb, or cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight for a deeper flavor.
4. Prepare the Crumble Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix the cold butter, brown sugar, flour, and salt. Use a fork or pastry cutter to break the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This crumble topping is what gives the casserole its signature crunch and sweetness.
5. Assemble and Chill:
Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the bread and custard mixture. Cover the dish and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step allows the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb all the custardy goodness.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven heats. Bake uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the custard to settle. Serve warm with your favorite toppings — a drizzle of maple syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or fresh berries for a touch of brightness.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- If freezing, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
