Description

Wake up to the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and vanilla with this Easy Baked French Toast Casserole. Made with soft bread cubes soaked in a creamy custard and topped with a buttery brown sugar cinnamon topping, it’s the perfect breakfast for any occasion. Prep it the night before for a stress-free morning treat that everyone will love.

Ingredients

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For the French Toast Base

1 loaf of bread (brioche or challah recommended)
8 large eggs
1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
¼ cup orange juice
½ tablespoon sugar (optional)

For the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Topping

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon salt

Optional Toppings

Sifted powdered sugar
Maple syrup
Fresh fruit (berries, bananas, etc.)

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Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Spray a 9×13-inch glass baking dish liberally with non-stick cooking spray.
Prepare the Bread:
- Cut or tear the loaf of bread into small cubes or pieces.
- Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Make the Custard Mixture:
- In another large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, orange juice, and sugar (if using) until fully combined.
Combine Bread and Custard:
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes.
- Gently fold the bread cubes to ensure they are evenly coated with the custard.
Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Pour the coated bread into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results.
Preheat the Oven:
- When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and preheat your oven to 375°F.
Make the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Topping:
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
Add Topping and Bake:
- Spoon the topping mixture evenly over the bread in the baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy to your liking.
Cool and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
- Top with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or fresh fruit, if desired, and enjoy!

Notes

Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs the custard without becoming soggy.
Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative for the topping.
Add Texture: Mix in chopped nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
Storage Tips: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freezing Option: Assemble the casserole without the topping, freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight and bake as directed.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American