Description
There’s nothing better than Easy French Toast Bake—a warm, cinnamon-spiced breakfast casserole with crispy edges and a soft, custardy center. Perfect for weekend brunch, holidays, or meal prep, this recipe is quick to assemble and can even be made ahead of time. Just bake and enjoy!
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Ingredients
Scale
For the French Toast:
- 1 loaf French bread (or brioche/challah), cut into cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (or half-and-half for richness)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
For the Topping (Optional but Recommended):
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, bananas)
- Whipped cream
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Assemble the French Toast
- Place cubed bread evenly in the baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down slightly so the bread absorbs the custard.
Step 3: Add the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts (if using).
- Sprinkle the mixture over the French toast, then drizzle with melted butter.
Step 4: Bake the French Toast Casserole
- Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, until golden brown and set in the center.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup.
- Serve warm with fresh fruit and whipped cream!
Notes
- Use Stale Bread – Day-old bread absorbs the custard better without getting too soggy.
- Make It Ahead – Assemble the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning!
- For a Crunchy Top – Add a streusel topping by mixing ¼ cup flour, ¼ cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons butter.
- For Extra Flavor – Add ½ teaspoon almond extract or a splash of orange juice to the custard.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Cuisine: American