Save A warm, comforting breakfast casserole featuring custardy day-old bread, baked to golden perfection with hints of cinnamon and vanilla.
This French Toast Bake became a weekend favorite the first time I made it for my family. It is so simple to prepare the night before, and everyone loves waking up to the delicious aroma as it bakes in the morning.
Ingredients
- Bread: 1 loaf (about 400 g) day-old bread (such as brioche or challah), cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) cubes
- Custard: 6 large eggs, 500 ml (2 cups) whole milk, 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream, 100 g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar, 2 tsp pure vanilla extract, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp salt
- Topping: 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted), 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare Bread:
- Grease a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
- Make Custard:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
- Soak Bread:
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure all pieces are soaked.
- Prepare Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Drizzle this mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Chill:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let sit at room temperature while the oven heats. Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally with maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar.
Pin it 
Pin it We love to sit around the table enjoying generous pieces of this casserole, each customizing their French Toast Bake with syrup, berries, or powdered sugar. On special occasions, we like to include a side of fruit salad to make it an extra festive breakfast.
Required Tools
23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish, mixing bowls, whisk, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, dairy, and gluten (wheat). For allergies, check all ingredient labels especially for the bread.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 320, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 40 g, Protein: 10 g
Pin it 
Pin it This French Toast Bake will bring warmth and comfort to your breakfast table. Enjoy it fresh and don't forget your favorite toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of bread works best?
Day-old brioche or challah cubes provide a soft, custardy texture and soak up the custard beautifully.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, refrigerate the assembled casserole for at least 30 minutes or overnight for enhanced flavor and texture.
- → What are the key spices used?
Cinnamon and pure vanilla extract give this dish its warm and aromatic flavor profile.
- → How do I know when it’s done baking?
The top should be golden brown, and the custard set but still soft. A slight jiggle in the center is normal.
- → Can any toppings be added?
Yes, melted butter combined with brown sugar and cinnamon creates a sweet crust. Optional nuts enhance texture.