Baked French Toast Casserole is the perfect mix of sweet, soft bread and warm cinnamon spices all baked into a cozy breakfast dish. Think layers of thick bread soaked in eggs, milk, and vanilla, topped with a crunchy streusel that gives just the right amount of texture and sweetness. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a treat but is so easy to make ahead of time.
I love making this casserole the night before—letting the bread soak up all the goodness really makes it extra tender and delicious in the morning. It’s great because I can just pop it in the oven while I’m getting ready, and by the time I’m done, breakfast is ready. Everyone always asks for seconds, and I’m happy to oblige because it’s so comforting and simple to prepare.
This casserole is wonderful for lazy weekend breakfasts or special occasions like holidays. I like to serve it with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of fresh fruit to balance the sweetness. It’s one of those recipes that fills the kitchen with the best smells and brings a warm, happy vibe to the table every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Brioche or challah works best because they soak up the custard without falling apart. If you can’t find these, thick white bread or French bread cubes are good options too. Just avoid very dense or thin slices.
Eggs & Milk: Eggs make the custard rich and help set the casserole. Whole milk or half-and-half gives creaminess; for a lighter version, use any milk (like almond or oat), but the dish may be less rich.
Sugars: Brown sugar adds a deep caramel flavor, especially in the streusel topping. You can swap it with coconut sugar for a different sweetness or reduce sugar to taste.
Spices: Cinnamon is a must—it brings warmth to every bite. Nutmeg is optional but adds a subtle spice if you like it. Feel free to add a pinch of ground cardamom or allspice for a twist.
Butter: Butter in the custard and streusel makes the texture tender and the topping crisp. You can substitute with a plant-based butter or coconut oil if needed.
How Do I Make the Custard Soak Into the Bread Perfectly?
Getting your bread fully soaked is key to a tender, flavorful casserole. Here’s how:
- Use stale or day-old bread—It holds its shape better and soaks up more custard without turning mushy.
- Cut bread into even cubes, about 1 inch, so the custard gets inside every piece evenly.
- Pour the egg mixture slowly and press the bread gently with the back of a spoon to help it absorb well.
- Let it sit for at least 20 minutes (or cover and refrigerate overnight) before baking. This resting time allows the custard to fully soak in.
This attention to soaking makes the inside soft and custardy, while the streusel on top stays crunchy and delicious.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for even baking and enough space for the bread to soak well.
- Mixing bowls – one large for the custard, and a smaller one for mixing the streusel topping easily.
- Whisk – to blend your eggs, milk, and spices smoothly without lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy with sugar, spices, and liquids.
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon – handy for folding the bread cubes with the custard.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries) to the bread cubes for juicy pops of flavor.
- Use cream cheese cubes layered with bread for a rich and tangy surprise in every bite.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts) into the streusel for added crunch and a nutty taste.
- Try adding a splash of orange zest or a pinch of ground cardamom to the custard for a bright, citrusy twist.
How to Make Baked French Toast Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 loaf (about 12 oz) of thick bread (such as brioche or challah), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Streusel Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Maple syrup
- Fresh strawberries or fruit, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 45-50 minutes to bake. If you want extra flavor, you can soak the bread overnight in the custard mixture and then bake it in the morning. Otherwise, just mix, assemble, and bake for a delicious and cozy breakfast treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish well with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the Bread Cubes:
Place your 1-inch bread cubes evenly into the baking dish, making sure they fill the dish nicely for even soaking.
3. Make the Custard Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or half-and-half, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt until everything is smooth and well combined.
4. Soak the Bread:
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Press down gently with a spoon to help the bread absorb the liquid. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes, or cover and refrigerate overnight for best results.
5. Prepare the Streusel Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter, fork, or fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
6. Add Topping and Butter:
Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the soaked bread. Then drizzle the melted butter on top of the streusel.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes. The top should be golden brown and the custard set in the middle.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar if you like, then serve warm with maple syrup and fresh fruit on the side. Enjoy your cozy, delicious breakfast!
Can I Use Day-Old or Frozen Bread for This Casserole?
Yes! Day-old bread works best because it soaks up the custard without becoming mushy. If using frozen bread, thaw it completely before cubing to ensure even soaking.
Can I Prepare This Recipe the Night Before?
Absolutely! After pouring the custard over the bread, cover the dish and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the flavors fully. Simply add the streusel topping and bake in the morning.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for the Streusel Topping?
If you prefer a lighter topping, skip the streusel and sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top before baking, or use crushed nuts for added texture.
