Introduction
There’s nothing better than waking up to the aroma of a warm, sweet, and buttery brioche French toast casserole baking in the oven. This dish is a rich, custardy breakfast casserole that brings all the goodness of traditional French toast but with the added convenience of a baked version. Whether you’re making it for a holiday brunch, a weekend breakfast, or a special occasion, this easy French toast casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Unlike regular French toast that requires flipping individual slices, brioche French toast casserole is baked all at once, making it an effortless, make-ahead option. You can prep everything the night before and wake up to a ready-to-bake dish. Whether you’re opting for an overnight brioche French toast or a quick soak method, this recipe ensures you get a perfectly golden, crispy top with a soft, custardy inside.
If you’ve ever wondered how to make brioche French toast casserole, you’re in the right place. This step-by-step guide will help you choose the best brioche bread for French toast, walk you through the soaking process, and offer the best toppings and serving ideas to make your breakfast extra special.
Why You’ll Love Brioche French Toast Casserole
✔ Super easy to make – No flipping slices of bread! Just mix, soak, and bake.
✔ Make-ahead friendly – Refrigerate overnight for even better flavor.
✔ Perfect for feeding a crowd – Great for holidays and weekend brunches.
✔ Customizable – Add your favorite fruit, nuts, chocolate chips, or spices.
Ingredients for the Best Brioche French Toast Casserole
Main Ingredients:
- Brioche bread (preferably slightly stale for better absorption)
- Eggs (for a rich, custardy texture)
- Heavy cream & whole milk (for extra fluffiness and richness)
- Brown sugar & cinnamon (adds warmth and sweetness)
- Vanilla & almond extract (for depth of flavor)
- Nutmeg (optional, but enhances the warm spice profile)
Topping Ingredients:
- Butter (for a crispy, golden topping)
- Brown sugar & flour (creates a streusel-like topping)
- Cinnamon (because you can never have too much!)
Optional Add-ins:
- Maple syrup (in the custard or drizzled on top)
- Fresh fruit (bananas, berries, or apples)
- Nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds for crunch)
- Chocolate chips (for an indulgent touch)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
✔ Mixing bowls
✔ Whisk
✔ 9×13-inch baking dish
✔ Knife for cubing brioche
✔ Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions Brioche French Toast Casserole
1. Prepare the Brioche Bread
First, cut the brioche into cubes or tear it into bite-sized pieces. If your bread is fresh, toast it at 175°F for 15 minutes to dry it out. Why? Slightly stale bread soaks up the custard better, preventing a soggy French toast casserole.
2. Make the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Eggs
- Milk & heavy cream
- Brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg
This creamy custard is what makes your baked brioche French toast extra rich and flavorful.
Tip: For an even deeper flavor, let the custard sit for 10 minutes before pouring it over the bread.
3. Assemble the Casserole
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Add the brioche pieces and pour the custard evenly over them.
- Lightly press the bread down so it absorbs the mixture completely.
4. Soak the Bread
Option 1: Overnight Soak – Cover and refrigerate for 8+ hours for maximum flavor.
Option 2: Quick Soak – Let sit at room temperature for 1 hour before baking.
Why is soaking important? It allows the custard French toast casserole to absorb all the flavors and prevents dry spots.
5. Make the Topping
In a small bowl, mix together:
- Brown sugar
- Flour
- Cinnamon
- Softened butter
Use your fingers or a fork to create a crumbly streusel texture. Sprinkle this evenly over the casserole for an irresistible crispy topping.
6. Bake the Brioche French Toast Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil halfway through baking.
How long to bake French toast casserole? It depends on your oven, but you’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the top is crisp.
7. Serve & Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes, then dust with powdered sugar and serve with:
✔ Maple syrup
✔ Fresh fruit
✔ Whipped cream
✔ Caramel drizzle
Best Toppings & Serving Ideas Brioche French Toast Casserole
✔ Classic: Maple syrup, powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar
✔ Decadent: Caramel drizzle, Nutella, whipped cream
✔ Fruity: Fresh berries, banana slices, sautéed apples
✔ Crunchy: Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds
If you’re making this for a holiday breakfast casserole, try adding cranberries, white chocolate chips, or a drizzle of warm honey.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips Brioche French Toast Casserole
How to Store Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Best Way to Reheat
- Oven: 350°F for 15–20 minutes (keeps texture crispy).
- Microwave: 30–60 seconds (quick but may soften the crust).
Can You Freeze French Toast Casserole?
Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture and make it soggy.
Pro Tips for the Best Brioche French Toast Casserole
✔ Use stale brioche – It soaks up custard without becoming mushy.
✔ Press the bread into the custard for even absorption.
✔ Don’t skimp on the topping – It adds crunch and flavor.
✔ Refrigerating overnight enhances taste and texture.
✔ Cover with foil halfway through baking to prevent burning.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
If you love meal prepping or need a stress-free holiday breakfast casserole, this recipe is perfect for making ahead. Whether you’re storing leftovers or preparing it the night before, here’s how to keep your brioche French toast casserole tasting fresh and delicious.
How to Store Leftovers
- Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- If keeping it in the original baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to maintain moisture.
Best Way to Reheat French Toast Casserole
- Oven method (best for texture): Preheat to 350°F and bake for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave method (quick but softer crust): Heat individual portions for 30–60 seconds until hot.
Can You Freeze Brioche French Toast Casserole?
Technically, yes—but it’s not recommended. Freezing can cause the custard to separate, resulting in a mushy or watery texture once thawed. If you must freeze it:
- Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag.
- To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Pro Tips for the Best Brioche French Toast Casserole
If you want your casserole to turn out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:
✔ Use slightly stale brioche – Fresh bread can become too soft, while stale bread absorbs custard more evenly.
✔ Press the bread into the custard – Lightly pressing ensures even soaking and no dry spots.
✔ Cover with foil halfway through baking – This prevents the top from browning too quickly.
✔ Don’t skimp on the topping – The buttery cinnamon-sugar crumble adds an irresistible crunch!
✔ Want extra caramelization? Drizzle maple syrup over the casserole before baking for a deep, golden color.
Common Questions & Solutions
Why is my French toast casserole soggy?
→ The most common reason is using too much custard or not enough bread. Also, make sure your brioche is dry or slightly stale before soaking it.
Can I use a different type of bread?
→ Absolutely! Challah, sourdough, French bread, or Texas toast work great. However, brioche bread for French toast gives the richest, most buttery flavor.
How do I quickly stale fresh bread?
→ If your brioche is too fresh, cut it into cubes and bake it at 175°F for 15–20 minutes to dry it out.
Can I make this dairy-free?
→ Yes! Swap out heavy cream and milk for almond, oat, or coconut milk, and use vegan butter in the topping.
Can I make a low-sugar version?
→ Of course! Substitute monk fruit sweetener or coconut sugar for the brown sugar, and reduce the amount in the custard.
Customization & Variations: Make It Your Own!
One of the best parts about brioche French toast casserole is that you can switch up the flavors to match your taste. Here are some fun variations to try:
1. Cinnamon Roll Brioche French Toast Casserole
- Add extra cinnamon and nutmeg to the custard.
- Drizzle cream cheese glaze on top after baking.
2. Maple Pecan French Toast Casserole
- Stir in chopped pecans for a nutty crunch.
- Swap brown sugar for maple syrup in the custard.
3. Chocolate Chip Brioche French Toast Bake
- Mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips.
- Serve with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder.
4. Apple Cinnamon Brioche French Toast Casserole
- Layer in thinly sliced apples before baking.
- Sprinkle extra cinnamon-sugar on top for a caramelized effect.
5. Holiday Eggnog French Toast Casserole
- Replace milk with eggnog for a festive touch.
- Add a dash of rum extract and nutmeg for warm holiday flavors.
6. Pumpkin Spice Brioche French Toast Bake
- Mix in pumpkin purée and pumpkin spice to the custard.
- Serve with maple whipped cream on top.
If you love experimenting, don’t be afraid to mix and match flavors to create your own signature breakfast casserole!
More Breakfast Recipes to Try
Looking for a unique holiday bread? Try this Cranberry and Pistachio Bread for a festive twist.
If you enjoy hearty breakfast dishes, you might also love this Sweet Potato Cornbread as a delicious side.
For a high-protein breakfast option, consider making this Cottage Cheese Quiche, a great balance of flavor and nutrition.
Complete your brunch spread with this Best Gluten-Free Waffle Recipe, perfect for guests with dietary restrictions.
Want to make your own toppings? Try this Apple and Pear Pie Recipe for a homemade fruit compote to drizzle over your casserole.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Breakfast Recipe!
Whether you’re preparing this brioche French toast casserole for a weekend brunch, a holiday gathering, or just a special morning treat, you can’t go wrong with this buttery, custardy, and oh-so-delicious dish.
With a crispy cinnamon-sugar topping and endless topping possibilities, it’s a versatile, make-ahead dish that makes mornings easier and more delicious. Plus, since you can prep it the night before, you’ll wake up with breakfast practically done.
So, why not give this recipe a try? Bake it, top it with your favorite flavors, and enjoy every bite!
Have you made this brioche French toast casserole? Let me know your favorite toppings in the comments below!