Description
On chilly mornings, nothing feels cozier than the scent of vanilla and cinnamon filling your kitchen. This Frosty Morning Vanilla French Toast Casserole combines the comforting flavors of classic French toast with the ease of a baked dish. It’s soft and creamy on the inside, golden and crisp on top, and perfect for make-ahead breakfasts, weekend brunches, or family gatherings. Simple, satisfying, and sure to be a favorite for everyone at the table.
Ingredients
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1 loaf French bread or brioche, cut into cubes (about 10 cups)
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8 large eggs
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2 ½ cups whole milk
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¾ cup heavy cream
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1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon salt
For the Crumb Topping
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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½ cup packed brown sugar
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1 teaspoon cinnamon
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¼ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
Optional for Serving
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Maple syrup
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Powdered sugar
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Fresh berries or sliced bananas
Instructions
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Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Spread the cubed bread evenly in the dish.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, vanilla extract, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
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Pour the mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing lightly so the bread absorbs the custard.
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Cover with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight for best results.
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In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until coarse crumbs form.
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When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove casserole from refrigerator and sprinkle crumb topping evenly on top.
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Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set. If the top browns too fast, loosely cover with foil.
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Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup and berries if desired.
Notes
Day-old bread works best, as it absorbs the custard without becoming soggy. You can prepare this casserole the night before and bake it in the morning for an effortless breakfast. For variation, add fresh berries, chopped nuts, or a pinch of nutmeg before baking. Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave, making this a great make-ahead breakfast option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes