Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, and truth be told, it might taste even better the next day. Prepare the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning, allowing a little extra time if it is very cold from the fridge. The slow soak overnight lets flavors settle and the custard to thicken up tenderly.

What is the best bread to use?

Brioche is the ideal choice for its buttery richness and soft crumb. If you cannot find brioche, challah or a good country loaf will work. Slightly stale bread absorbs custard better, so resist using bread that is too fresh if possible.

How do I prevent the top from burning?

If you notice the top taking color too quickly, tent foil loosely over the dish. The foil prevents further browning while the center finishes setting. Also, check your oven’s temperature with an oven thermometer; many ovens run hot and cause faster browning.

Can I make this in a slow cooker or crock pot?

Yes, you can adapt it for low, steady heat. Layer the soaked brioche into a greased slow cooker, cover, and cook on low until the custard sets. The result will be slightly different in texture but equally comforting. Slow cooker versions keep well for holiday mornings when you want to set it and forget it.

How should I serve it to a crowd?

Keep a warm baking dish in the oven set to low to hold portions. Provide small bowls of extras berries, nuts, butter, and maple syrup so guests can top each plate as they like. This encourages sharing and keeps the meal feeling relaxed and communal.

Easy Oven-Baked Brioche French Toast Casserole 2026

Description

This comforting casserole combines soft brioche bread with a tender custard, perfect for family gatherings and holiday mornings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 loaf brioche bread
4 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Thinly sliced almonds (for topping)
Maple syrup (for serving)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a baking dish with butter.
Cut the brioche bread into cubes and place them in the greased baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring they are well soaked.
Let it sit for at least ten minutes to allow the brioche to absorb the custard.
Sprinkle sliced almonds on top.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
Serve warm with a generous drizzle of maple syrup.

Notes

For a richer custard, use heavy cream. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 160mg