Warm, comforting, and crowd-pleasing — this overnight French Toast Casserole is the perfect breakfast bake to bring your loved ones together. Whether you’re prepping for a cozy weekend brunch, a holiday morning, or just craving a special treat, this easy, make-ahead recipe delivers rich, custardy goodness with a crisp, cinnamon-sugar topping. It’s the ultimate blend of indulgence and convenience.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
- No morning prep: Assembled the night before, baked fresh in the morning.
- Feeds a crowd: Perfect for families, guests, or brunch parties.
- Texture perfection: Soft inside, crispy on top.
- Customizable: Choose your favorite mix-ins and toppings.
- Freezer-friendly: Bake now, enjoy later.
Ingredients Overview
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf (16 oz) stale brioche or challah, cubed
- 8 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla bean paste or pure vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
- Pinch of sea salt
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for greasing and added richness)
Optional Mix-ins (choose 1–2):
- 1 cup fresh berries (blueberries, strawberries)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- Zest of 1 lemon or orange
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into cubes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Bread
- Cut stale bread into 1-inch cubes.
- If using fresh bread, toast in a 275°F oven for 10–15 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Custard
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Add bread cubes and any optional mix-ins.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread.
- Press gently to ensure all bread is soaked.
- Cover tightly with foil or wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Step 4: Prepare the Crumble
- In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Store covered in the fridge until ready to use.
Step 5: Bake
- Remove casserole from fridge 30 minutes before baking.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sprinkle crumble topping evenly over casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until golden brown and set in the center.
- Optional: Broil for 2 minutes for extra crisp topping.
Step 6: Serve
- Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit.
Flavor Variations
- Banana Nut – Add sliced bananas and chopped walnuts.
- Cinnamon Roll – Swirl cinnamon-sugar mixture into the custard.
- Pumpkin Spice – Replace 1/2 cup milk with pumpkin puree and add pumpkin spice.
- Lemon Blueberry – Add lemon zest and fresh blueberries.
- Chocolate Raspberry – Mix in dark chocolate chips and raspberries.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in oven at 300°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual servings.
- Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 10 servings total)
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 18g
- Sugar: 15g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make it dairy-free? Yes! Use oat or almond milk and plant-based cream. Swap butter with coconut oil.
What’s the best bread to use? Stale brioche or challah works best, but French bread or croissants also work well.
Can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free bread and add 1 tbsp ground flaxseed to help absorb the custard.
How do I avoid soggy casserole? Use stale bread, don’t oversoak, and always bake uncovered.
Can I add protein? Yes, add 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder to the custard or serve with Greek yogurt.
Final Tips
- Let the casserole rest before serving for the perfect slice.
- Use a thermometer: internal temp should reach 160°F.
- Get creative with toppings: caramel drizzle, whipped cream, or toasted coconut.
This French Toast Casserole is the kind of breakfast that turns mornings into memories. Easy to prep, endlessly customizable, and loved by all ages — it’s a must-save recipe for your breakfast collection.
