French Toast Casserole

Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe (Perfect for Brunch & Holidays)

If you love classic French toast but hate standing over the stove flipping slices one by one, this French Toast Casserole recipe is about to become your new favorite breakfast. It’s rich, cozy, and baked to golden perfection, with a soft custardy center and lightly crisp edges. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to prep ahead, making it ideal for busy mornings, weekend brunches, and holiday breakfasts when you want something impressive without the stress.

Why You’ll Love This French Toast Casserole

This recipe checks all the boxes for a crowd-pleasing breakfast. It’s simple to prepare, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and can be made the night before. The flavors are classic and comforting, with warm cinnamon, vanilla, and a hint of sweetness in every bite. It’s also very forgiving, which means even beginner cooks can nail it on the first try. Plus, you can customize it endlessly with different breads, toppings, and add-ins.

Recipe Overview

Serving Size: 6 to 8 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 to 45 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour (or overnight with chilling)

Kitchen Equipment Required

9×13-inch baking dish
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Aluminum foil
Oven

Ingredients

1 loaf day-old French bread or brioche, cut into cubes
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons melted butter (for greasing the dish)

Optional toppings:

Powdered sugar
Maple syrup
Fresh berries

How to Make French Toast Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
Spread the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, making sure all pieces are soaked.
Gently press the bread down to absorb the custard.
Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until set and lightly golden on top.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best French Toast Casserole

Use day-old or slightly stale bread so it absorbs the custard without becoming soggy. Brioche and challah work beautifully if you want a richer texture. Letting the casserole rest overnight allows the flavors to fully develop, giving you a more custardy interior. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil during baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid using fresh, soft bread straight from the bakery, as it can turn mushy. Do not skip the resting time, especially if you want a creamy texture throughout. Overbaking can dry out the casserole, so check for doneness when the center is just set and no longer liquid.

Variations and Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, use almond milk or coconut milk and skip the cream. You can add chopped apples, blueberries, or sliced bananas for extra flavor. A cream cheese swirl adds richness and makes this feel extra indulgent. For a savory twist, reduce the sugar and add cooked sausage, cheese, and herbs.

How to Store and Meal Prep

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole is perfect for meal prep since it can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve warm with maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar for a classic look. Fresh berries add color and freshness, while a dollop of whipped cream turns it into a brunch-worthy centerpiece. Pair it with crispy bacon or fresh fruit for a complete breakfast spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this French toast casserole overnight?
Yes, and it’s highly recommended. Overnight chilling improves both texture and flavor.

What bread works best for French toast casserole?
French bread, brioche, and challah are all excellent options because they absorb custard well.

Can I freeze French toast casserole?
Yes. Bake it first, let it cool completely, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

How do I know when it’s done baking?
The center should be set and no longer liquid, and the top should be lightly golden.