Cinnamon French Toast

Name: Cinnamon French Toast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 slices Thick-cut bread; 3 large Eggs; 0.5 cup Milk; 0.25 cup Heavy cream; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 0.25 teaspoon Nutmeg; 2 tablespoons Butter; 0 cup Maple syrup (for serving)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Oh, friend, let me tell you about this Cinnamon French Toast Casserole. It’s not just breakfast; it’s a hug in a dish, a nostalgic trip back to childhood mornings when the house smelled like pure happiness. You know those recipes that just feel *right*? The ones you instinctively know will be a hit before you even take the first bite? This is that recipe. It’s my go-to when we have overnight guests, a special treat for lazy Sundays, or even when I’m just craving something wonderfully comforting and sweet but don’t have the patience to stand over a hot griddle making individual slices. It’s like a magnificent, golden-brown French toast that feeds a crowd, all baked together in one glorious pan. Forget the fussy individual servings; this casserole takes all the magic of classic French toast and makes it gloriously communal and ridiculously easy.

What is a cinnamon French Toast casserole?

So, what exactly is this magical Cinnamon French Toast Casserole? Think of it as the best parts of classic French toast – that custardy, eggy bread soaked to perfection, infused with warm spices – all baked together into a comforting, shareable dish. It’s essentially an overnight bake, meaning you can assemble it the night before (a lifesaver on busy mornings!) and just pop it in the oven when you wake up. The bread slices soak up a rich, creamy custard, and when it bakes, the edges get wonderfully crisp while the inside stays tender and gooey. The cinnamon is absolutely key, giving it that signature warm, cozy flavor that just screams “weekend breakfast.” It’s less about the individual bread slices and more about the collective deliciousness, a symphony of sweet, spiced goodness that’s perfect for sharing.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Why do I love Cinnamon French Toast casserole?flavor is just out of this world. That classic French toast taste is amplified here; the cinnamon is warm and inviting, the vanilla adds a sweet depth, and the custard makes every bite incredibly rich and satisfying. It’s perfectly sweet without being cloying, and the subtle hint of spice just makes it sing. Then there’s the simplicity. This is where it truly shines for me. Assembling it takes maybe 15 minutes, and the overnight soaking does all the hard work for you. Waking up and knowing breakfast is already mostly done? Pure bliss! It’s also wonderfully cost-efficient. You’re using everyday ingredients like bread, eggs, milk, and spices – things most of us have in our pantry or fridge already. It’s a fantastic way to use up slightly stale bread, too! And let’s talk about its versatility. While it’s incredible on its own, I love how easily it can be customized. Add some berries, chocolate chips, or nuts. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup. It’s a dish that truly adapts to your mood and the occasion. Compared to making individual French toast slices which can be a bit of a juggling act, this bake is so much more relaxed. I’ve tried countless breakfast casseroles over the years, but this Cinnamon French Toast version always steals the show. It’s the perfect blend of comforting nostalgia and effortless deliciousness, making it a consistent winner in my home.

How do you make cinnamon French toast?

Quick Overview

This Cinnamon French Toast casserole is all about effortless indulgence. You’ll arrange slices of your favorite bread in a baking dish, pour over a rich, spiced custard, let it soak overnight (or for at least a few hours), and then bake until golden and puffed. The result is a tender, flavorful, and wonderfully satisfying breakfast or brunch dish that feels incredibly special but requires minimal morning effort. It’s the ultimate make-ahead breakfast that always impresses.

Ingredients

For the Bread Base:
1 loaf (about 1 lb) of challah, brioche, or thick-cut white bread (day-old is perfect!): I swear by challah or brioche for their slightly sweet, eggy texture, but a good sturdy white bread works too. Avoid very soft sandwich bread as it can get too mushy. The key is slightly dried-out bread; it soaks up the custard like a dream without falling apart.

For the Custard Mixture:
6 large eggs: These are the backbone of our custard, providing richness and binding everything together. Make sure they’re at room temperature if you have time; it helps them incorporate more smoothly.
2 cups whole milk: You can use 2% if that’s what you have, but whole milk gives the creamiest, most luxurious texture. I’ve experimented with almond milk and oat milk, and while they work, the richness is definitely diminished. The whole milk really makes it sing.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: For that perfect sweetness. You can adjust this slightly based on your preference and how sweet your bread is.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: This is crucial for that signature flavor! Don’t be shy with the cinnamon; it’s what makes it so wonderfully warm and aromatic.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A little vanilla goes a long way to enhance all the other flavors and add a lovely depth.
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: This is my secret little addition. It complements the cinnamon beautifully and adds a subtle warmth that takes it to the next level. You can skip it if you don’t have any, but I highly recommend it!

For the Topping (Optional but highly recommended!):
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This creates our crunchy streusel topping.
1/2 cup packed light Brown Sugar: For that caramel-like sweetness in the topping.
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes: Cold butter is key for a crumbly streusel.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: To tie the topping into the rest of the casserole.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish. I like to give mine a light greasing with butter or non-stick spray. This helps ensure your casserole slides out beautifully and nothing sticks, making cleanup a breeze. I usually do this right after I decide I’m making it, so it’s ready to go.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and the nutmeg if you’re using it. This ensures the spices and sugar are evenly distributed throughout the custard mixture. It’s a simple step, but it really helps avoid pockets of unsweetened or overly spiced liquid.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk the 6 large eggs until they’re well combined and slightly frothy. Then, pour in the 2 cups of whole milk and the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and homogenous. This is your beautiful custard base!

Step 4: Combine

Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Whisk gently until everything is just combined. The trick here is not to overmix. You want it smooth, but a few tiny lumps of sugar are perfectly fine. Overmixing can make the eggs tough. Just a good, gentle whisk until you can’t see any dry streaks of spices or sugar.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

This step is all about the bread! Cut your loaf of challah or brioche into about 1-inch thick slices. If your bread is very fresh, you might want to let it sit out for a few hours, or even toast it lightly before slicing to ensure it can absorb the custard without disintegrating. Arrange the bread slices snugly in your prepared baking dish, fitting them in as best you can. Don’t worry if there are small gaps; the custard will fill them.

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

This is where the magic really starts. Slowly and evenly pour the custard mixture over the bread slices in the baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently press down on the bread, making sure each piece is getting coated and starting to soak up that delicious custard. If you have time, let it sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or better yet, cover it and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the bread to truly absorb all that yummy custard goodness. This overnight soak is my favorite part – it makes morning so much easier!

Step 7: Bake

If you made the topping (and I really think you should!), whisk together the 1/2 cup flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a small bowl. Cut in the cold butter with your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this evenly over the soaked bread mixture. Now, cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The topping should be delightfully crisp and golden. If it starts browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil again.

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This is crucial! It allows the custard to set up properly, making it easier to slice and preventing it from being too runny. If you’re adding a glaze, now’s the time. While it cools, I like to whisk together a simple powdered sugar glaze (about 1 cup powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream until desired consistency) or just warm up some maple syrup.

Step 9: Slice & Serve

Using a sharp knife, cut the casserole into generous squares. Serve warm, with your favorite toppings! A dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, fresh berries, or a generous pour of pure maple syrup are all fantastic choices. The aroma as you slice into it is heavenly, and the texture is just perfect – custardy, slightly chewy, and wonderfully comforting.

What to Serve It With

This Cinnamon French Toast casserole is a star on its own, but it truly shines when paired with the right accompaniments. For a casual breakfast, I love serving it with a strong cup of coffee and a small bowl of fresh berries. The tartness of the berries cuts through the richness beautifully. If you’re planning a lovely brunch spread, elevate it with a side of crispy bacon or some savory breakfast sausage. A mimosa or a sparkling cider makes a perfect beverage pairing. For a more decadent, dessert-like experience, consider a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent! My family absolutely loves it after dinner as a sweet treat, especially on cooler evenings. And for those times when you just need a comforting, cozy snack, a warm slice with a glass of milk or a mug of hot chocolate is pure heaven. We often have it for dessert during the holidays, and it’s always a massive hit. I’ve also found that a side of Greek yogurt adds a nice protein boost and tanginess, making it a more balanced meal any time of day.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cinnamon French Toast Casserole

After making this Cinnamon French Toast casserole more times than I can count, I’ve picked up a few tricks that really make a difference. First, regarding the bread prep: Day-old bread is your best friend here. If your bread is super fresh, don’t hesitate to lightly toast the slices before cubing or arranging them. This helps them absorb the custard without becoming a soggy mess. The ideal texture is slightly chewy on the inside and a little crisp on the edges. For the mixing advice, remember to be gentle with the custard. You’re aiming for a smooth mixture, but over-whisking the eggs can lead to a tougher casserole. Just combine until everything is well incorporated. And when you’re pressing the bread down into the custard, be firm but gentle; you want it to soak, not disintegrate. The swirl customization is where you can have fun! While I usually just pour the custard evenly, some people like to create swirls by adding a bit of cinnamon-sugar mixture or even a thin layer of jam between the bread slices before pouring the custard. For ingredient swaps, if you don’t have whole milk, 2% works fine, but the texture will be a bit less rich. You can also experiment with different types of bread – sourdough can add a lovely tang, but it’s best when it’s slightly dried out. For baking tips, the foil cover at the beginning is important to ensure the inside cooks through without the top and edges burning. Keep an eye on it during the last 15-20 minutes and adjust the foil as needed. A good doneness test is when the center is set and a toothpick comes out clean. Lastly, for glaze variations, if you’re not a fan of powdered sugar, a simple warmed maple syrup is divine. You could also whisk in a little orange zest or a drop of almond extract into the maple syrup for an extra flavor kick. I once tried a cream cheese glaze, and while delicious, it made it a bit too rich – definitely a dessert-only option!

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Cinnamon French Toast casserole is fantastic for make-ahead meals, which is why I love having leftovers (if they even make it that far!). For room temperature storage, it’s best to eat it within a couple of hours of baking. If you have a small amount left and want to enjoy it later that day, a loosely covered dish is fine, but for longer storage, the refrigerator is key. Refrigerator storage is where it really shines. Once it has cooled completely, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It will stay delicious in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making it even tastier! For freezer instructions, this casserole freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then wrap the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. You can also cut it into individual portions and wrap those. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator overnight. For glaze timing advice, I always recommend adding any glaze or frosting *after* reheating. If you’re storing it with a topping like a streusel, that’s fine. But a delicate powdered sugar glaze or whipped cream is best applied just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you absolutely can! I’ve had great success using a good quality gluten-free bread. Look for a hearty, dense loaf that holds up well. You might need to adjust the soaking time slightly, as gluten-free breads can sometimes absorb liquid a bit differently. I’d recommend letting it soak for at least an hour at room temperature, or overnight in the fridge, and ensure each slice is well-covered in custard. The texture might be slightly softer than with traditional bread, but it’s still incredibly delicious. You can also try using a gluten-free flour blend in the streusel topping if you’re making that.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

This recipe is for Cinnamon French Toast Casserole, which doesn’t typically include zucchini! Perhaps you’re thinking of a different recipe. This one focuses on bread, custard, and spices. If you were hoping for a zucchini-based dish, I can certainly share some of my favorite zucchini bread or muffin recipes!

Can I make this as muffins instead?

You absolutely can! This is a fantastic idea for individual portions. You’ll want to cut your bread into small cubes and fill greased muffin cups about two-thirds full with the bread cubes and then pour the custard over. You might need to press them down gently. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden and set. They’ll likely cook faster than the casserole, so keep an eye on them. The streusel topping works wonderfully on muffins too!

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of granulated sugar in the custard and 1/2 cup of brown sugar in the topping, which I find to be a nice balance. If you prefer it less sweet, you can reduce the granulated sugar in the custard to 1/3 cup and the brown sugar in the topping to 1/3 cup. You can also rely more on natural sweetness from toppings like fresh fruit or a lighter drizzle of maple syrup. The key is to find what’s perfect for your taste buds!

What can I use instead of the glaze?

Oh, the glaze is just a little extra touch! If you don’t want to make a glaze, or if you’re short on time, there are plenty of other delicious options. A simple dusting of powdered sugar is classic and pretty. A generous pour of warm, pure maple syrup is always a winner. Fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas adds freshness. Whipped cream is a lovely, light topping. You could even serve it with a side of Greek yogurt for a bit of tang. I’ve even seen people serve it with a dollop of cream cheese frosting, which is decadent but delicious!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my ultimate Cinnamon French Toast casserole recipe! It’s more than just a dish; it’s an experience. It’s that perfect balance of comforting familiarity and delightful indulgence that makes any morning feel like a special occasion. The ease with which it comes together, especially with the make-ahead option, means you can enjoy that incredible flavor without all the fuss. It’s truly a testament to how simple ingredients can create something so wonderfully magical. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing breakfast that smells as good as it tastes, this is it. I hope it brings as much joy and deliciousness to your table as it does to mine. If you give this recipe a try, please let me know how it turns out in the comments below – I love hearing your feedback and seeing your creations! And if you enjoyed this, you might also love my recipe for Fluffy Blueberry Pancakes or my Quick & Easy Baked Oatmeal. Happy baking, and enjoy every single bite!

No ratings yet