The Best French Toast Casserole Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This French Toast Casserole is the perfect weekend brunch dish, combining ease and incredible flavor in one pan. You’ll love how it’s made the night before, saving you time in the morning while still delivering a warm, comforting meal. It’s packed with sweet, custardy goodness, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. The golden, crispy topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, pillowy texture underneath. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—add your favorite fruits, nuts, or spices to make it your own!
Recipe
French toast casserole is a delightful and easy-to-make breakfast dish that combines the richness of French toast with the convenience of a casserole. This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead for a stress-free morning.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf (16 oz) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, making sure all the bread is soaked. Press down gently to guarantee even absorption.
- Let the casserole sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to fully soak up the mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve with optional toppings like powdered sugar, maple syrup, or fresh berries.
Notes:
- For a make-ahead option, assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake it in the morning as directed.
- You can use brioche or challah bread for a richer flavor.
Equipment:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 8-10
Nutrition
This French toast casserole is a delicious and hearty breakfast option. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 150 mg |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 20 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my French toast casserole with fresh fruit toppings like berries or sliced bananas—they add a sweet, juicy contrast. If you’re craving something savory, crispy bacon or scrambled eggs balance the dish perfectly. Either way, you can’t go wrong, so pick what makes your taste buds happy!
Fresh Fruit Toppings
When you’re ready to take your French toast casserole to the next level, adding fresh fruit toppings is a game-changer. I love piling on sweet berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries—they add a juicy burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich custard. For a sunny twist, try tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, or kiwi; their bright, tangy notes balance the dish’s sweetness. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar ties it all together. Trust me, once you’ve tried it this way, you’ll never skip the fruit again—it’s that good!
Savory Side Options
Though French toast casserole is sweet and satisfying on its own, pairing it with savory sides creates a perfectly balanced meal. I love serving it with baked potatoes, which are hearty and comforting, especially when topped with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and a dab of butter. Roasted asparagus is another favorite of mine—it’s easy to prepare, adds a pop of color, and its crisp texture contrasts nicely with the soft casserole. These sides not only enhance the flavors but also make the whole meal feel more complete, giving you a mix of sweet and savory in every bite.
