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Overnight Baked French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

Close-up of a square slice of baked french toast topped with a thick, glistening cinnamon streusel.

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Make your weekend mornings special with this easy baked French toast casserole. Prep this crowd-pleasing breakfast the night before for a stress-free morning bake that results in a custardy interior and a crispy, golden exterior.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (about 1 pound) brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus more for topping
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions

  1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, and granulated sugar until fully combined. This creates the rich custard base for your baked French toast.
  3. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press the bread down to help it absorb the custard. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This soaking time is key for the best French toast casserole texture.
  4. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  5. Prepare the cinnamon streusel topping: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and an extra 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  6. Remove the plastic wrap from the casserole dish. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the soaked bread.
  7. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set (a knife inserted near the center comes out clean).
  8. Let the baked French toast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve warm for a perfect weekend brunch recipe.

Notes

  • Using day-old or slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs the custard without becoming too soggy.
  • For an extra special touch, add 1/2 cup of raisins or chopped pecans to the bread before pouring the custard over it.
  • This make-ahead breakfast recipe is excellent served with maple syrup or fresh berries.

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