This French toast casserole brings together all the classic flavors of traditional French toast in a simple, overnight method. Gone are the days of standing over a hot stove, flipping individual slices while guests wait. With this easy recipe, you can prepare everything the night before, pop it in the oven in the morning, and serve a delicious, stress-free breakfast perfect for casual weekends or special holidays. I first discovered this idea at a charming bed and breakfast in the South, and you can customize it by adding ingredients like blueberries and cream cheese, cinnamon apples, nuts, or dried fruit!
How to Make French Toast Casserole
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Additional Time: 8 hrs | Total Time: 8 hrs 45 mins | Servings: 8 | Yield: 1 (9×13-inch) casserole
Ingredients
French Toast:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 (8-ounce) loaf crusty French bread, cut into bite-sized pieces, or more as needed
- 2 cups milk
- 6 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Topping:
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon, or to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Gather all ingredients and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Make the French Toast Base: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, stir the brown sugar and butter together until the butter is melted and the sugar has dissolved, about 2 to 4 minutes. Pour this butter-brown sugar mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the Bread: Scatter the French bread pieces over the butter-brown sugar mixture in an even layer.
- Mix the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla until well combined. Pour this mixture over the bread pieces, pressing the bread down with a spatula so it fully absorbs the liquid. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.
- Prepare to Bake: When ready to bake, remove the dish from the refrigerator and discard the plastic wrap. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Add the Topping: Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl, then sprinkle it over the top of the French toast casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until browned and bubbling. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil.
- Serve: Once baked, cut the casserole into squares and invert onto serving plates.
How to Store French Toast Casserole
Store any leftovers of the French toast casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Editor’s Note:
Several reviewers have suggested that baking this casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 60 minutes yields a better texture. If you have a bit more time, consider trying this method!
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
– Calories: 382
– Fat: 17g
– Carbs: 48g
– Protein: 10g
This French toast casserole is the ultimate solution for a hassle-free yet impressive breakfast that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or simply enjoying a lazy weekend morning, this dish offers all the comforting flavors of traditional French toast without the fuss. The overnight preparation allows you to enjoy more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen. Plus, with the flexibility to customize the ingredients, you can make it your own by adding your favorite fruits, nuts, or even a swirl of cream cheese. Serve it warm, drizzled with syrup, and watch as it becomes a new family favorite. Don’t forget to save any leftovers—they make for a quick and delicious breakfast the next day!