Description
This French Toast Casserole is a warm, comforting breakfast bake with rich flavors of cinnamon, vanilla, and maple syrup. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this easy make-ahead dish is ideal for holiday mornings, brunch gatherings, or a cozy weekend treat. Made with simple ingredients like French bread, eggs, milk, and warm spices, it bakes to golden perfection—no standing over the stove required!
Ingredients
1 loaf of day-old French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup pecans, chopped (optional)
1/4 cup butter, melted
Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Dish – Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the bread cubes evenly inside.
- Mix the Custard – In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Soak the Bread – Pour the mixture over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure full absorption. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Preheat & Assemble – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the casserole sit at room temperature while the oven heats. Sprinkle with pecans and drizzle melted butter on top.
- Bake – Bake for 45-55 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Serve – Let cool slightly before serving with a drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy warm!
Notes
Make-Ahead Tip: Prep the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
Bread Choices: Brioche, challah, or croissants create a richer texture.
Variations: Add fruit, chocolate chips, or swap sugar for cheese & bacon for a savory twist.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months.
Reheating: Microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds or warm in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
