Can I use different types of bread?

Yes. Sturdier breads like brioche, challah, or a country loaf work best because they hold the custard. Sandwich loafes also work. Avoid overly dense rye or very thin breads.

Can I make this in a slow cooker instead of the oven?

Absolutely. Use a shallow slow cooker and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. Finish under the broiler for color if needed. The slow method gives a creamier texture.

How can I make this less sweet for a savory breakfast?

Reduce the white sugar to 1/4 cup and cut the brown sugar topping in half. Add a cup of cooked savory elements like sausage or bacon and serve with mustard or a sharp cheese on the side.

What if my casserole is still jiggly in the middle after the stated baking time?

Oven temperatures can vary. If it jiggles significantly, continue baking for 5 to 10 minutes. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil. A slight jiggle is fine; it will set as it rests.

How long can I prepare it ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it the next morning, adding a few extra minutes if it is very cold from the fridge.

Easy French Toast Casserole 2026

Description

A comforting casserole made with bread soaked in custard, baked to perfection, and topped with a nutty brown sugar crumble.

Ingredients

Scale

12 slices of bread
4 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., pecans or walnuts)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup melted butter

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
Cut the bread into roughly one-inch cubes and place them in the prepared dish.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Pour this mixture over the bread cubes and stir gently.
If possible, let it sit for 30 minutes to absorb.
In another bowl, mix the nuts, brown sugar, and melted butter to create a crumble topping and sprinkle it over the bread mixture.
Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and set. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

This casserole can be assembled a night before and refrigerated overnight. Serve warm with maple syrup or powdered sugar.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 120mg