A warm, sweet breakfast really kicks off the day in a great way. French toast casserole is one of those comfort foods that works for busy mornings, lazy weekends, and even special occasions. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or just enjoying something tasty without spending too much time cooking.
This is the kind of breakfast that makes the whole house smell amazing. It’s buttery, cinnamon-y, and has that perfect balance of crisp edges and soft, custardy center. If you’ve ever had regular French toast and wished it was easier to make in big batches, this is the answer. No flipping required, no standing at the stove—just mix, bake, and enjoy.
There are a few different ways to make it, depending on how much time you have. If you want something simple, a classic version comes together quickly. If you like a little extra sweetness, a cinnamon roll twist might be your favorite. And if mornings are busy, prepping it the night before makes breakfast effortless. However you make it, this casserole is warm, rich, and comforting.
This post is all about making French toast casserole in a way that fits your schedule and taste. From a traditional version to an overnight option, plus a cinnamon roll-inspired take, there’s something for everyone. If you love an easy, crowd-pleasing breakfast, you’re going to want to try at least one of these.
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The Best Bread to Use
Not all bread is the same for French toast casserole. Some soak up the custard just right, while others get all soggy. Picking the right bread makes a huge difference in texture and flavor, so let’s talk about the best options.
Top choices for the perfect texture:
- Brioche – This is my favorite. It’s soft, slightly sweet, and holds up well to the custard. It also bakes into a golden, fluffy casserole.
- Challah – Similar to brioche but a little denser. It’s great for soaking up all that creamy egg mixture without falling apart.
- French Bread – A solid option, but make sure it’s slightly stale. Fresh French bread can be too chewy, but day-old works great.
- Sourdough – If you like a little tangy contrast to the sweetness, this is a good pick. It also holds up well to soaking.
Breads to avoid:
- White sandwich bread – It’s too soft and will turn to mush.
- Whole wheat bread – It has a stronger flavor that doesn’t always work well with the sweet custard.
- Super fresh bread – No matter the type, if it’s too fresh, it won’t absorb the mixture properly. Let it sit out overnight for better results.
If your bread is fresh and soft, cut it into cubes and spread it out on a baking sheet. Let it dry out for a few hours before using. The goal is to have it just dry enough to soak up the custard but still keep its structure when baked.
The bread choice is what takes a French toast casserole from good to amazing, so go with a sturdy, slightly dry option for the best results.
Easy Traditional French Toast Casserole
This is the most classic version. It has all the flavors of traditional French toast but in an easy, no-fuss format. It’s buttery, soft, and golden brown on top with just the right amount of sweetness. Perfect for a weekend breakfast, brunch, or even breakfast-for-dinner nights.
Ingredients:
- A loaf of bread (brioche, challah, or French bread work best)
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half for richness)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Steps to make it:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
- Cut the bread into cubes and place them in the dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour the mixture over the bread and gently press down so the bread soaks it up.
- Drizzle melted butter over the top.
- Bake uncovered for about 40 minutes, until golden and slightly crisp on top.
Tips for the best texture:
- Use slightly stale bread so it absorbs more of the custard mixture.
- Let the bread sit in the egg mixture for 10 minutes before baking.
- Add a little nutmeg for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
Serve this with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries for a simple but delicious breakfast.
Traditional French Toast Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 loaf brioche challah, or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, pressing the bread down lightly so it absorbs the liquid.
- Drizzle melted butter over the top.
- Let sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
- Bake uncovered for 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries.
How to Store and Reheat French Toast Casserole
French toast casserole is one of those breakfasts that tastes just as good the next day—if you store and reheat it the right way. Leftovers can be a lifesaver for busy mornings, so let’s make sure they stay just as delicious.
How to store it:
- Refrigerator – Once it cools, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge for up to four days.
- Freezer – Cut into portions, wrap individually, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for up to three months.
The best ways to reheat:
- Oven (best option!) – Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 15 minutes or until warm. This keeps it from drying out.
- Microwave (quick but not as crispy) – Heat individual slices on a plate for 30–60 seconds. Add a damp paper towel on top to keep it from getting tough.
- Air fryer (great for crispy edges) – Set to 350°F and heat for about 3–5 minutes. This brings back some of that freshly baked texture.
How to freshen up leftovers:
- Drizzle on a little maple syrup before reheating to add moisture.
- Add fresh fruit or whipped cream to make it feel like a new dish.
- If it seems a little dry, warm up a tablespoon of butter and pour it over the top.
Having leftover French toast casserole is a gift. Store it well, reheat it properly, and enjoy an easy, delicious breakfast all over again.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
If you love cinnamon rolls, this one is even better! It’s soft, sweet, and drizzled with icing for that perfect cinnamon roll taste. This one is a little more indulgent, making it great for holidays, brunches, or any morning you want a little something extra.
Ingredients:
- 1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls (or make your own)
- 5 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- The icing from the cinnamon rolls
How to make it:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
- Cut cinnamon rolls into quarters and place them in the dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon.
- Pour over the cinnamon roll pieces and gently toss to coat.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and set in the center.
- Drizzle with icing while warm.
Ways to make it even better:
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for a little crunch.
- Add a few tablespoons of cream cheese to the icing for a tangy twist.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch.
This one is rich, gooey, and perfect for a special morning treat. It’s also a great way to make cinnamon rolls without having to frost them individually.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls or homemade, cut into quarters
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Icing from the cinnamon rolls
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Cut the cinnamon rolls into quarters and spread them evenly in the prepared dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces.
- Gently toss to coat the cinnamon roll pieces in the custard mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from oven and drizzle with the included icing while still warm.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm with extra icing, syrup, or fresh fruit.
Creative Toppings for French Toast Casserole
French toast casserole is great on its own, but the right toppings make it even better! Whether you want extra sweetness, crunch, or a little tang, there’s a topping for that.
Sweet and classic options:
- Maple syrup – Always a good choice, warm and drizzled over the top.
- Powdered sugar – A light dusting makes it feel fancy and adds a little extra sweetness.
- Whipped cream – Fluffy, creamy, and delicious. Add a little cinnamon to make it even better.
Fruity and fresh ideas:
- Sliced bananas – A little caramelized banana on top makes it taste extra special.
- Fresh berries – Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries all add a fresh, tart contrast.
- Apple compote – Warm cinnamon apples over French toast casserole? Yes, please.
Crunchy toppings:
- Chopped nuts – Pecans, walnuts, or almonds give a nice contrast to the soft casserole.
- Granola – If you love a little extra crunch, sprinkle some on after baking.
- Toasted coconut – Adds a little tropical twist and a crispy texture.
Unique extras:
- Cream cheese drizzle – Mix softened cream cheese with a little powdered sugar and milk for a tangy-sweet topping.
- Caramel sauce – A little drizzle makes it taste like dessert.
- Nutella or peanut butter – Warm it up slightly and spread it on for a rich, nutty flavor.
The best part of French toast casserole is how easy it is to make it your own. Try a different topping each time and see which one becomes your favorite!
Overnight French Toast Casserole
Mornings can be chaotic, but this make-ahead version saves time. You just mix everything together the night before, let it soak overnight, and bake it fresh in the morning. It’s great for holidays, busy weekdays, or any time you don’t want to do much in the morning.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf French bread, cut into cubes
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
How to prepare it:
- Grease a baking dish and add the bread cubes.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Pour over the bread and gently press down to soak.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- In the morning, preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix melted butter and brown sugar, then drizzle over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, until golden brown.
Why this is a great option:
- The bread soaks up all the flavors, making it extra rich.
- No morning prep—just pop it in the oven.
- Perfect for meal prepping or serving guests without the stress.
This version is soft, custardy, and full of warm spice. It pairs well with fresh fruit, syrup, or even a dusting of powdered sugar.
Overnight French Toast Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Spread the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the bread, pressing the bread down lightly to soak up the liquid.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight for at least 8 hours.
- In the morning, preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix melted butter and brown sugar in a small bowl.
- Drizzle brown sugar mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is fully set.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit.
How to Make French Toast Casserole Less Sweet (Without Losing Flavor)
Sometimes, French toast casserole can be a little too sweet, especially if you’re making it for breakfast. But cutting back on sugar doesn’t mean losing flavor. There are simple ways to balance it out while still keeping it delicious.
Reduce the sugar in the custard:
- Cut the sugar in half—most recipes use 1/2 cup, but 1/4 cup is often plenty.
- Use maple syrup instead of sugar for a more natural sweetness.
- Swap half of the sugar for cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla to add flavor without making it too sweet.
Use a less sweet bread:
- Brioche and cinnamon bread already have sugar in them, so switching to French bread or sourdough can help.
- Whole wheat bread is an option if you like a more neutral taste.
Balance the sweetness with toppings:
- Fresh fruit adds natural sweetness but also a little tartness.
- Greek yogurt or cream cheese adds richness without sugar.
- A sprinkle of nuts or seeds can tone down the overall sweetness.
Other tricks to try:
- Add a pinch of salt to balance out the sugar.
- If using a streusel topping, make it with less sugar or swap some for chopped nuts.
- Use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk instead of sweetened varieties.
Making French toast casserole less sweet doesn’t mean making it bland. Small swaps can make a big difference, so it’s just right for your taste!
Final Thoughts
French toast casserole is one of those breakfasts that checks all the boxes. It’s easy, comforting, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you want something simple, indulgent, or make-ahead, there’s a version for you.
We covered a few delicious ways to make it:
- Traditional French toast casserole – Classic, buttery, and simple to throw together.
- Cinnamon roll version – Sweet, gooey, and perfect for special mornings.
- Overnight option – Prep it the night before for an effortless breakfast.
The right bread makes a difference, and choosing something sturdy like brioche or challah helps with the texture. We also talked about ways to make it less sweet without losing flavor, so you can customize it to your taste.
Toppings really amp things up! Try maple syrup, fresh fruit, or some crunchy pecans. Leftovers? No problem. Storing and reheating it the right way keeps it just as delicious the next day.
If you’ve never made French toast casserole, now is the time to try. It’s a low-effort breakfast that looks and tastes like you spent hours on it. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for busy mornings.
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