Can I use a different bread if I cannot find brioche?

Absolutely. Brioche is lovely because of its richness, but challah is a close cousin and works well. Day-old French bread or a sturdy white loaf can also do the job. Slightly drier bread absorbs custard better.

Can I prepare this the night before?

Yes. Assemble the casserole and cover it in the fridge overnight. Bring it to room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking. This makes mornings easier and helps the custard soak through evenly.

What if my center is still too jiggly after 35 minutes?

Ovens vary. If the center jiggles like liquid, return the dish to the oven for 5 to 10 more minutes. You are looking for a gentle set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean but with a slight custard coating.

Can I make this in a slow cooker rather than the oven?

You can. Grease a slow cooker and fit the bread and custard as you would in a pan. Cook on low for about 2 to 3 hours, checking after 90 minutes for doneness. The texture will be denser and very moist. Keep a plate or lid on top to prevent condensation from dripping.

How do I serve to a crowd?

Make two casseroles or keep one warm on a low oven setting. Offer toppings like berries, whipped cream, and warm syrup in separate bowls so each guest can assemble their own plate. A small platter of sausages or a pot of coffee complements the table perfectly.

Easy Brioche French Toast Casserole 2026

Name: Brioche French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon salted butter for greasing dish; 1 (17 ounce) brioche bread loaf, chopped into 1 inch cubes; 4 eggs, whisked; 1 and 1/2 cups half and half; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup white sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Optional Toppings: 1/8 cup sugar mixed with 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, maple syrup, berries, and/or whipped cream

Description

A comforting and generous casserole that combines the richness of brioche with a silky custard infused with cinnamon and vanilla.

Ingredients

Scale

1 teaspoon salted butter for greasing dish
1 (17 ounce) brioche bread loaf, chopped into 1 inch cubes
4 eggs, whisked
1 and 1/2 cups half and half
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings: 1/8 cup sugar mixed with 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, maple syrup, berries, and/or whipped cream

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Butter a 9×13 casserole dish with the salted butter.
Chop the brioche into 1 inch cubes and place them in the casserole dish.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs until smooth and slightly frothy.
In a large bowl, whisk together cinnamon and sugar, then add in half and half, heavy cream, whisked eggs, vanilla extract, and salt, blending well.
Pour the custard mixture over the bread and gently toss to ensure all the bread cubes are soaked.
Optional: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture before baking.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden and the center is set.
Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving with powdered sugar, maple syrup, and berries.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated in the oven or on the stovetop.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 130mg