This Easy French Toast Casserole is a tasty way to start your day! It’s packed with fluffy bread soaked in a sweet mix of eggs, milk, and warm spices.
If you’re like me, mornings can be hectic, so this casserole is perfect. Just mix, pour, and let it bake while you sip your coffee—easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Day-old Bread: Use French bread or brioche for a soft and custardy texture. If you don’t have these, challah or even leftover bagels work well. Just make sure it’s slightly stale to soak up the egg mixture without falling apart!
Eggs: These are crucial for binding the casserole. If you’re vegan or need an egg substitute, try using flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg). It works nicely for the texture.
Milk & Cream: Whole milk gives a creamy flavor, but you can swap in almond milk, oat milk, or any milk you prefer. For a lighter version, use all milk and skip the heavy cream.
Sugars: Granulated and brown sugars create sweetness and richness. You can use coconut sugar or honey as alternatives, but adjust the measurements since these can alter moisture levels.
How Do You Ensure Soft and Custardy Bread?
The key is soaking the bread long enough! Be sure to saturate the bread with the egg mixture: gently pressing the cubes down helps them soak up all the flavors. If you can, refrigerate overnight for maximum absorption. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking for even cooking.
- After pouring the egg mixture, press down on the bread blocks.
- Refrigerate at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
- Before baking, always sprinkle on the streusel topping for that extra crunch.
These tips will help you bake the perfect French Toast Casserole that’s both delicious and easy to make!
Easy French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 8 cups day-old bread cubes (such as French bread or brioche)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Optional Garnish:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Maple syrup for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes of prep time and 45-55 minutes of baking time. If you choose to refrigerate it overnight, it allows the flavors to meld beautifully—perfect for a hassle-free breakfast in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or a non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Place the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, making sure to gently press down on the bread to help it absorb all the flavor-packed custard mixture.
4. Chill the Casserole:
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight. This resting period ensures the bread soaks up the delicious custard.
5. Prepare the Streusel Topping:
In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to combine these ingredients until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
6. Add the Topping:
After chilling, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the soaked bread. This will create a wonderfully crunchy layer on top as it bakes!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown and crisp. You want that perfect blend of softness and crunch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar if you like, and serve it warm with a drizzle of maple syrup on top. Enjoy this delightful breakfast treat with your family and friends!
This Easy French Toast Casserole is perfect for cozy mornings or brunch gatherings—a deliciously sweet start to your day!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Fresh Bread Instead of Day-Old Bread?
While day-old bread is ideal for soaking up the custard, you can use fresh bread if needed. Just dry it out a bit first by toasting the bread cubes in the oven at a low temperature (about 300°F) for 10-15 minutes to prevent it from becoming too soggy.
Can I Make This French Toast Casserole Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the eggs with a vegan egg replacer (like flaxseed meal) and use almond milk or another non-dairy milk in place of whole milk and cream. You can also use a plant-based butter for the streusel topping.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the casserole before baking, just ensure it is well covered. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed. Alternatively, you can bake it first, let it cool completely, and then freeze it. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
