French Toast Casserole Recipe: The Ultimate Make-Ahead Breakfast Guide
This French Toast Casserole is soft, sweet, and baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy make-ahead breakfast that’s perfect for holidays, brunch, or relaxed weekends. Prep it the night before, let it soak, and bake it fresh in the morning for a warm, comforting dish everyone will love.
Ingredients
French Toast
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1 (24-ounce) loaf sourdough bread
(or brioche, challah, or French bread) -
8 large eggs
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2 cups milk
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½ cup heavy cream
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1 tablespoon vanilla extract
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¾ cup sugar
Crumb Topping
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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½ cup light brown sugar, packed
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon salt
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½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions
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Prepare the Bread
Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and spread evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. -
Make the Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla, and sugar. Pour the mixture evenly over the bread. -
Refrigerate
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight so the bread absorbs the custard. -
Prepare the Topping
In a bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. Place in a resealable bag and refrigerate until ready to bake. -
Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator, sprinkle the topping evenly over the bread, and bake uncovered for 45–60 minutes, depending on how soft or crisp you prefer it. -
Serve
Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm on its own or with maple syrup and fresh fruit.
Notes
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Bread matters: Day-old or slightly stale bread works best for soaking up the custard.
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Texture control: Bake closer to 45 minutes for a softer center or longer for a crispier top.
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Flavor boost: Add nutmeg, orange zest, or chopped pecans to the topping.
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Serving ideas: Serve with berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.