French Toast Casserole

There are mornings when a simple slice of toast just doesn’t cut it. You want something comforting, a little indulgent, and a showstopper for family or friends.

That’s where French Toast Casserole comes in. Imagine layers of soft, buttery bread soaked in a rich custard, baked until golden, with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping. Breakfast dreams really do come true.

I made this for a birthday brunch party, I wanted something other than an Egg Bake. That’s when I decided to try a French Toast Casserole.

It was a game-changer! Not only is it easy to make ahead, but it also feeds a crowd, making it perfect for the upcoming holidays, weekend brunches, or even a cozy morning at home.

Plus it has fruit in it so I consider that to be healthy.

You can even take this casserole up a notch by using Joanna Gaines’ Homemade French Bread recipe—its soft, rustic texture makes the perfect base for soaking up all that rich custard.

Why You’ll Love This French Toast Casserole

• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.
• Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for 6–8 people, making it ideal for family breakfasts or brunch parties.
• Customizable: Add berries, nuts, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra indulgence.
• Comfort Food at Its Finest: Soft, custardy bread with a crisp topping—it’s breakfast heaven.

What is French Toast Casserole?

French Toast Casserole is essentially a baked version of classic French toast, made to serve a crowd and often prepared ahead of time.

Instead of cooking individual slices on a skillet, you layer chunks or slices of bread in a baking dish, pour a sweet custard mixture over them, and bake until golden and custardy.

Tips for the Best French Toast Casserole

• Use day-old bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better without getting mushy.
• Don’t skip chilling: Letting the bread soak overnight intensifies the flavor and creates a custardy center.
• Mix it up: Toss in chocolate chips or berries for extra bursts of flavor.

Ingredients

• French bread, cubed
• Eggs
• Milk
• Strawberries, sliced
• Blueberries
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon
• Brown sugar
• Optional toppings: powdered sugar and maple syrup for serving

How to make French Toast Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Place cubed French bread evenly in the dish.

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon.

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes.

Top the casserole with the sliced strawberries and blueberries.

Gently press down on the bread to ensure it absorbs the liquid.

Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally, overnight.

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Remove the casserole from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking.

Bake for 35-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Let it cool slightly, then sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.