French Toast Casserole
French Toast Casserole cooks into a warm breakfast with tender centers and golden edges.
About This Recipe
French Toast Casserole should be warm, tender, and easy to serve without fuss.
Cook at a steady temperature so the outside browns while the center finishes properly.
Ingredients
- ✓1 loaf (1 pound) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ✓8 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ✓3 cups 2% milk
- ✓4 teaspoons sugar
- ✓1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ✓3/4 teaspoon salt
- ✓TOPPING
- ✓2 tablespoons butter
- ✓3 tablespoons sugar
- ✓2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ✓Maple syrup, optional
Ingredient Notes
- Batter: Mix only until combined for a lighter texture.
- Eggs: Room-temperature eggs blend more evenly when used in batters.
- Pan Heat: Medium heat gives the center time to cook before the outside gets too dark.
- Toppings: Add syrup, fruit, or butter after cooking so the texture stays fresh.
Instructions
- 1
Scatter the French bread cubes in a greased 13x9-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla and salt. Editor’s Tip: Make sure the eggs are completely beaten into the wet ingredients or you’ll find bits of scrambled eggs in your French toast bake. An immersion blender does a great job of really blending these ingredients together. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and refrigerate for eight hours or overnight.
- 2
Remove the pan from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking, and preheat the oven to 350°F. Dot the top of the casserole with butter. Editor’s Tip: Don’t discard the aluminum foil. Save it for baking in the next step. In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar and cinnamon, and evenly sprinkle the mixture over the top.
- 3
Cover the pan with the aluminum foil, and bake the casserole until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, 45 to 50 minutes. Let the French toast casserole stand for five minutes. Slice it up and serve it warm, with maple syrup if desired.
Katy’s Kitchen Tips
- Preheat the pan or griddle before adding batter.
- Do not overmix breakfast batters.
- Cook in batches without crowding the pan.
- Keep finished portions warm while the rest cook.
Variations and Substitutions
- Herb finish: Add fresh herbs before serving.
- Spicy version: Add chili or hot sauce.
- Lighter option: Serve with salad or vegetables.
- Make ahead: Prepare components early and finish fresh.
What to Serve With French Toast Casserole
Serve French Toast Casserole with fruit, yogurt, eggs, bacon, sausage, coffee, or maple syrup.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for best quality.
Reheat gently, adding a small splash of liquid if the dish seems dry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Pan too hot: The outside browns before the center cooks.
- Overmixing batter: A few lumps are better than tough batter.
- Flipping too often: Let the first side set before turning.
- Letting food sit too long: Breakfast dishes are usually best warm.
FAQ
Can I make French Toast Casserole ahead?
Some parts can be measured ahead, but cook close to serving for the best texture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Many pancakes, muffins, and casseroles freeze well after cooling.
Why did it turn tough?
Overmixing or using too much heat can make the texture tough.
How do I reheat it?
Warm gently in the oven, toaster, skillet, or microwave.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 223 calories
- Carbohydrates: 29g carbohydrate (9g sugars
- Cholesterol: 151mg cholesterol
- Fiber: 1g fiber)
- Protein: 11g protein.
- Sodium: 484mg sodium
- Fat: 7g fat (3g saturated fat)