Indulge in Baked French Toast Casserole for a Cozy Brunch
This make-ahead baked French toast casserole features layers of soft bread soaked in a sweet cinnamon-vanilla custard, topped with a buttery streusel. Perfect for holidays or weekend mornings, it's easy, delicious, and feeds a crowd.
Equipment
- - 9x13-inch baking dish
- - Mixing bowls
- - Whisk
- - Oven
- * Plastic wrap (if chilling overnight)
Ingredients
- *For the French Toast Base:*
- * 1 loaf of French bread or brioche about 14 oz, cubed
- * 6 large eggs
- * 2 cups whole milk
- * 1/2 cup heavy cream or more milk
- * 1/2 cup brown sugar
- * 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- * 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- * 1/4 teaspoon salt
- *For the Streusel Topping:*
- * 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- * 1/2 cup brown sugar
- * 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- * 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter cubed
Instructions
- **Prepare the bread:** Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and add cubed bread evenly inside.
- **Make the custard:** In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Pour over the bread, pressing down gently to soak all the cubes.
- **Chill (optional):** Cover and refrigerate overnight, or let sit for at least 30 minutes if baking the same day.
- **Make the streusel:** Combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the butter with a fork or fingers until crumbly. Sprinkle over the casserole just before baking.
- **Bake:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until puffed and golden.
- **Serve:** Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.