How to Make an Easy French Toast Casserole

Ingredients

• 8 oz French Bread (crusty French or sourdough bread, cut into 1‑inch cubes)
• 6 large Eggs (room temperature)
• 2 cup Milk (whole milk preferred for richness)
• 2 tsp Vanilla Extract (pure vanilla extract)
• 1 stick Unsalted Butter (melted)
• 2 tbsp Light Brown Sugar (packed; used for butter‑sugar base)
• 2 tbsp Light Brown Sugar (packed; used for topping)
• 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
• 0.5 cup Fresh Berries (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Cube the Bread

   Cut the French or sourdough bread into roughly 1‑inch cubes; set aside.

   Time: PT5M

2. Prepare the Custard

   In a mixing bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups whole milk, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until smooth with no visible egg chunks.

   Time: PT5M

3. Make Butter‑Sugar Base

   Melt 1 stick unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then stir in 2 tbsp light brown sugar until fully dissolved and the mixture looks slightly caramelized.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: medium heat

4. Spread Base in Dish

   Pour the melted butter‑sugar mixture into the bottom of a 9×13‑inch casserole dish and spread evenly.

   Time: PT2M

5. Layer Bread

   Evenly distribute the cubed bread over the butter‑sugar layer.

   Time: PT2M

6. Add Custard

   Pour the custard over the bread, making sure all cubes are submerged; gently press to help the bread soak.

   Time: PT5M

7. Refrigerate Overnight

   Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours (overnight) to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard.

   Time: PT8H0M

8. Preheat Oven

   When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 350°F

9. Prepare Topping

   In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp light brown sugar with 1 tsp ground cinnamon; stir until evenly mixed.

   Time: PT2M

10. Add Topping

    Sprinkle the cinnamon‑brown‑sugar mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

    Time: PT1M

11. Bake

    Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden‑brown and the center is set. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.

    Time: PT30M

    Temperature: 350°F

12. Rest and Serve

    Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes, then serve warm topped with fresh berries, maple syrup, or powdered sugar if desired.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

350

Protein

12 g

Carbohydrates

45 g

Fat

12 g

Fiber

2 g