Save to Pinterest A warm, comforting breakfast casserole featuring custardy day-old bread, baked to golden perfection with hints of cinnamon and vanilla.
I first made this French Toast Bake during a family weekend when everyone craved something warm and special for breakfast. It quickly became a favorite we revisit whenever we want a little extra comfort.
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 baking dish and 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.
- Mix 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.
- Rest and refrigerate:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat oven:
- 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:
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Cool and serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally with maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar.
Save to Pinterest This dish always reminds me of quiet Sunday mornings when we gather at the table, sharing slices and stories before heading out on our weekend activities.
Required Tools
Essential equipment includes a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish, mixing bowls, whisk, and measuring cups and spoons for accurate results.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains eggs, dairy, and gluten. Always check bread ingredients if allergies are a concern for guests.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 320 calories with 13 g of total fat, 40 g of carbohydrates, and 10 g of protein.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this French Toast Bake fresh from the oven for a truly cozy breakfast treat. Serve it with your favorite fruits or a dollop of whipped cream for extra delight.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What bread types work best for this bake?
Brioche and challah provide a soft, slightly sweet base that soaks up custard well. Day-old bread is preferred to prevent sogginess.
- → Can I prepare the casserole in advance?
Yes, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard for richer flavor and texture.
- → How do I ensure a golden top?
The cinnamon-brown sugar butter mixture drizzled before baking helps create a beautifully caramelized surface during cooking.
- → Are there suitable substitutions for dairy ingredients?
Dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk and vegan butter can be used, but they may slightly alter the custard’s richness.
- → What are some recommended toppings or serving ideas?
Serve warm with maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the flavors.
- → Can nuts be included in this dish?
Yes, adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping provides a pleasant crunchy texture contrast.