Easy French Toast Casserole

Name: Easy French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 loaf loaf of bread (sourdough or brioche preferred) (Ensure bread is slightly stale for best results.); 6 large large eggs (Use large eggs for a rich custard texture.); 2 cups milk (Dairy alternatives may be used.); 1/2 cup heavy cream (Can substitute with cream alternatives.); 1/2 cup sugar (Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (Essential for flavor.); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Adds flavor and warmth.); 1/4 teaspoon salt (Enhances overall flavor.); to taste none Maple syrup (Essential for drizzling on top.); to taste none Powdered sugar (For dusting before serving.)

Posted on January 9, 2026

Easy French Toast Casserole baked dish ready to serve with syrup

Breakfast Recipes

Easy French Toast Casserole: The Comfort Dish You Need

Let me set the scene for you: it’s a chilly Sunday morning, the kind that begs for warm, comforting food. The kind of day where you want to roll out of bed and fall right into the embrace of your favorite cozy breakfast. That’s how I first discovered (or fell in love with) this Easy French Toast Casserole recipe. Picture me, eyes barely open, shuffling around the kitchen, still half-asleep. I stumbled upon a few stale slices of sourdough bread and, if I’m being honest, it was either let them go to waste or turn them into something delicious. Spoiler alert: I chose the latter!

This recipe means a lot to me; it’s not just about breakfast. It’s about those lazy mornings when the whole family gathers around the table, laughter bubbling up like a pot on the stove. You know what I mean? The aroma wafting through the air of eggs and cinnamon, coupled with the sizzling anticipation of maple syrup drizzled on top. It feels like a hug in every bite.

And let’s be real—this isn’t a five-star culinary masterpiece that takes all day to prepare. No, my friend, this is a straightforward, budget-friendly recipe that can easily slide into your weekend rotation. Sure, the first few tries had me questioning my cooking prowess (oops!). I once forgot to cover the dish in the fridge overnight, and needless to say… we had a soggy bread experiment that wasn’t meant to be! But every experimental breakfast led to learning, and now I can whip this casserole up with my eyes closed.

As I reminisce about the laughter and chaos of those kitchen adventures, I can’t help but feel a swell of gratitude. It’s a dish that feels like home, filled with memories that make every forkful more delicious than the last. And let’s not forget that this casserole is perfect for when friends drop by unexpectedly (you know, those "I’m in the neighborhood" texts)—just pop it in the oven, and you’ve got yourself a delightful breakfast in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ease of Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have this casserole baking while you sip your morning coffee or even sneak another nap!
Picky-Eater Approved: It’s like a breakfast hug, and honestly, who can resist fried bread? Kids and adults alike adore it.
Great for Leftovers: If you can manage to have any left, this casserole is perfect for a quick breakfast during the week—hello, easy weeknight dinners.
Meal Prep Magic: You can prep it a night in advance, making it a solid choice for a Sunday brunch or holiday gathering.
Healthy Comfort Food: Sure, it’s a treat, but you can easily lighten it up by using whole grain bread or reducing the sugar.
A Versatile Recipe: The base is fantastic for adding in your favorite fruits or nuts. Think crunchy pecans or juicy blueberries—yum!

What Makes This Recipe Special?

Let’s talk about the unique flavors that set this dish apart. While the cinnamon adds a warm, spicy touch, it’s the combination of heavy cream and milk that creates a creamy custardy texture—seriously, you can’t beat that. Plus, the beauty of this recipe is that it’s customizable. Use whatever bread you’ve got on hand! Sourdough, brioche, or even a good ol’ regular loaf works; they all bring out different flavor nuances.

The memories tied to this dish propel it into the realm of the extraordinary. It’s about those moments when my daughter first tasted it and exclaimed, “Mom! This is like dessert for breakfast!” And it is, really. Learning to embrace the messiness of cooking happened hand-in-hand with teaching her, even through the oops moments. Like the time flour turned into a snowstorm while mixing—no kidding, I swear I saw bits of comedy gold right there.

What’s not to love about a dish that brings people together? It’s the perfect vessel for creating memories, whether it be family breakfast, brunch with friends, or a cozy solo morning with Netflix in your pajamas.

Ingredients

1 loaf of bread (sourdough or brioche preferred)
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Maple syrup (for serving)
Powdered sugar (for serving)

When it comes to ingredients, let’s break it down!

Bread: I usually reach for sourdough or brioche because they add a delightful texture and flavor. Make sure it’s a bit stale—soft, fresh bread doesn’t hold up quite as well.
Eggs: They provide the base for that rich custard texture. Use large ones—the bigger, the better!
Milk & Heavy Cream: The creamy combination is an absolute game-changer. You can play with the ratios if you’re trying to lighten it up; just keep the total liquid the same.
Sugar: This is technically dessert, right? A half-cup of sugar might sound like a lot, but this casserole feeds a crowd, making it budget-friendly. You can also sub in brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Vanilla & Cinnamon: These two are essential for that warm, classic flavor profile. Oh, and the smell? To die for!
Salt: Just a pinch! Salt enhances all the flavors and really rounds them out.

Oh, and don’t skip the maple syrup and powdered sugar for serving! The syrup drizzled on top takes this dish to the next level. Trust me, you’ll want to embrace that sticky goodness wholeheartedly.

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Alright, it’s time to roll up my sleeves and get into the nitty-gritty of this casserole. Join me on this journey, and let’s tackle it together!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat that oven to 350°F (175°C). While that warms up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I like to use cooking spray or a little butter, because honestly, who wants a stuck casserole? The struggle is real.

Step 2: Cube the Bread
Next, cut your loaf into about 1-inch cubes. I find this part therapeutic—nothing like chopping bread to get into the cooking groove. Dump those cubes into your greased dish, spreading them out evenly.

Step 3: Whisk the Custard Mixture
Grab a large bowl (one that can withstand my whisking fervor) and whisk together those six eggs. Once they’re nice and frothy, pour in the milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. You want to mix it until it’s all homogenous and beautiful—think of it as a creamy embrace for your bread.

Step 4: Soaking Heavenly Bread
Pour your dreamy custard mixture over the bread. This is where the magic happens! Gently press down on the bread to help it soak up all that goodness. We want each piece to absorb this richness like it’s going to the spa. Cover that precious dish with plastic wrap and toss it in the fridge. Leave it there for at least two hours or, even better, overnight. It needs that time to really soak up all the flavors.

Step 5: Time to Bake
Now, here comes the exciting part. When you’re ready to bake, remove that plastic wrap and pop your dish in the oven for about 45-50 minutes. You want it to be golden and set in the middle. The smell here? Well, let’s just say it’s going to tease every single person in your house!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once it’s out of the oven and cooled for a few minutes, slice it up, and serve it warm with maple syrup and a generous dusting of powdered sugar. Honestly, if I could bottle the aroma and feel of this moment, I would! The combination of flavors and textures is pure joy in every bite.

Save

Tips for Best Results

Let It Sit: Don’t rush the soak time! Whether it’s a few hours or overnight, the longer the bread absorbs the custard, the more flavorful it’ll be.
Keep it Cool: Make sure to cover the dish well while it’s in the fridge, or bad things can happen! No one wants a dry French toast casserole.
Experiment: Feeling adventurous? Toss in some fresh berries, chocolate chips, or nuts. The flexibility here means you’re allowed to let your creativity roam!

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Bread: If you have any leftover bagels or even gluten-free bread, they might surprise you with how well they work in this recipe.
Milk & Cream: Swap out for any dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk if you need a dairy-free option. Go for a cream alternative if you like softer textures.
Sugar: Feel free to lower the sugar or use a natural sweetener! Honey or maple syrup directly in the mixture can add a nice twist, too.
Seasoning: Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom — both can bring a unique spin that’ll impress your brunch crowd.

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Cut the bread into cubes and place in the prepared baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Pour the mixture over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden and set in the middle.
Serve warm with maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)

Pair this delectable French toast casserole with a warm cup of coffee or a light fruit salad on the side. Want to take it to the next level? Throw in a mimosa or two if brunch time calls! Honestly, this dish coupled with a light-hearted rom-com sounds like absolute perfection to me.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover casserole (which is honestly a rarity in my home), you can store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. When it’s time to reheat, pop it in the microwave for around 30-45 seconds, or stick it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. I’ve learned the hard way that you want to avoid microwaving it for too long, or it can become a rubbery fiasco!

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

This casserole shines even more when you prep it ahead of time. Just assemble it the night before and let it soak overnight. You can also freeze it before baking! Cover it well, and when you’re ready to bake, you can throw it directly into the oven (you may just need to adjust the baking time).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Soak: I get it, you’re in a rush, but don’t skip letting the bread bathe in the custard! You’ll want every last morsel to be soft and flavorful.
Incorrect Bread Choice: Fresh bread can lead to disappointing results. Stale is the way to go, trust me on this one!
Overbaking: Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid a dry casserole. Set a timer—baking requires precision, my friend!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use different types of bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with whatever bread you have (bagels, croissants, or baguettes) as long as they’re slightly stale.

Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes! Cover it well before baking and freeze it. Allow extra time for baking if cooking from frozen.

Is it possible to make it dairy-free?
For sure! Swap the cream and milk with dairy-free options like almond or oat milk and dairy-free yogurt.

What can I add for extra flavor?
Oh, the possibilities! Nuts, berries, or even chocolate chips can elevate the dish to a whole new level.

How do I know when it’s done baking?
You’re looking for a golden brown top, and a knife inserted should come out clean.

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

A 9×13 inch baking dish (or similar size)
Mixing bowls (I recommend a large one for whisking)
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons

Final Thoughts

And there you have it—a cozy, delightful French toast casserole that invites conversation and laughter into your home. This recipe has become a staple for a reason—it’s easy to prepare and brings the family together over warm, sweet memories.

I hope you get a chance to make this casserole and find your own favorite variations along the way. Please, if you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend! After all, good food tastes better when shared! Happy cooking, friends!