French Toast Bake (Printable)

Golden baked casserole blending custardy bread with cinnamon and vanilla for a warm satisfying morning dish.

# What You Need:

→ Bread

01 - 1 loaf day-old brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

→ Custard

02 - 6 large eggs
03 - 2 cups whole milk
04 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
05 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
06 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
07 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Topping

09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
10 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

# How-To Steps:

01 - Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread bread cubes evenly in the dish.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
03 - Pour custard evenly over bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure all pieces are soaked.
04 - Mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Drizzle evenly over the casserole.
05 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best flavor and texture.
06 - Set oven to 350°F. Remove casserole from refrigerator and let stand at room temperature while oven heats.
07 - Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and custard is set.
08 - Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally with maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Easy to prepare ahead for busy mornings
  • Customizable with your favorite bread and toppings
02 -
  • Contains eggs, dairy, and gluten; check bread ingredients for allergens
  • French Toast Bake is perfect for making in advance and refrigerated overnight
03 -
  • Let the assembled dish soak overnight for extra creamy texture
  • Add chopped nuts to the topping for crunch
Go Back