French Toast Bake is more than just a meal—it’s a heartwarming tradition. Originally called pain perdu or “lost bread” in medieval France, the dish was created to give stale bread a delicious second life. Today, it has transformed into an easy and indulgent breakfast casserole perfect for holidays, weekend brunches, or anytime you crave something cozy and sweet. Unlike traditional French toast, this version requires no standing over a skillet. Instead, it’s baked in the oven, making it a stress-free solution for feeding a crowd.
With layers of soft bread soaked in a rich, custardy mixture, baked over a buttery brown sugar base, and finished with cinnamon and powdered sugar, this recipe delivers comfort in every bite. Whether you’re preparing for a special morning or simply treating yourself, this French Toast Bake will satisfy and impress.
Why French Toast Bake Is a Breakfast Favorite
Perfect for Sharing
This casserole-style dish is made to feed a group, making it ideal for family breakfasts, brunch with friends, or special celebrations like Christmas morning or Easter brunch.
Minimal Morning Prep
The recipe is prepared the night before, meaning all you need to do the next morning is pop it in the oven. That leaves more time for coffee, conversation, or simply staying in your pajamas a bit longer.
Flexible and Forgiving
Day-old bread, pantry staples like eggs and milk, and a touch of vanilla and cinnamon are all it takes. You can customize it easily with seasonal fruits, nuts, or even chocolate chips.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create a soft, golden French Toast Bake with a caramelized bottom:
- 1 loaf of bread (preferably slightly stale or day-old; thick slices like brioche, challah, or French bread work best)
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon, for sprinkling
- Powdered sugar, for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Caramel Layer
- Melt the butter: In a small bowl, microwave the butter until fully melted.
- Mix with brown sugar: Stir the melted butter together with the brown sugar until well combined. This forms a rich, sweet base for the bake.
- Add to the baking dish: Pour the butter and sugar mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly across the bottom. This layer becomes gooey and caramelized as it bakes.
Make the Custard
- Whisk the eggs, milk, and vanilla: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs. Add the milk and vanilla, and whisk until fully combined and smooth. This mixture will soak into the bread, making it soft and custardy.
Assemble the Layers
- First layer of bread: Arrange a single layer of thick bread slices over the butter and sugar mixture in the dish. Try to cover the base completely.
- Add half the custard: Spoon or slowly pour half of the egg-milk mixture over the bread layer, making sure each slice is moistened. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little cinnamon for warmth and spice.
- Repeat with a second layer: Place another layer of bread slices on top of the first. Add the remaining custard over the second layer and sprinkle again with cinnamon.
Chill and Set
- Refrigerate overnight: Cover the baking dish with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the bread to absorb all the rich flavors, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bake.
Bake the Next Morning
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover and bake: Bake the dish covered with foil for 30 minutes to help steam the custard and keep the top from drying out.
- Uncover and finish baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This allows the top to brown slightly and adds texture to the surface.
Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from oven: Let it cool for a few minutes to set.
- Dust and drizzle: Sprinkle powdered sugar and an extra dash of cinnamon on top. Serve warm with maple syrup for a classic finish.
Tips for Success
- Use thick, sturdy bread: Soft sandwich bread will become too soggy. Opt for challah, brioche, French bread, or Texas toast.
- Let it soak overnight: The longer it sits, the more custard the bread absorbs, resulting in a rich, flavorful texture.
- Make it your own: Add sliced bananas, berries, raisins, or chocolate chips between layers for extra flavor.
- Don’t overbake: Once the top is golden and the center is set, remove from the oven. Overbaking can make it dry.
- Serve fresh: While it reheats well, nothing beats the texture and warmth of freshly baked French Toast Bake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of bread works best for French Toast Bake?
Thick, slightly stale bread like brioche, challah, or French bread is ideal. These types hold up well to the egg mixture without becoming mushy.
Can I make this without chilling overnight?
Yes, you can bake it right away, but the texture might not be as rich. If you’re short on time, let it sit for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Can I use non-dairy milk?
Absolutely. Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk can replace regular milk without affecting the texture too much. Just make sure it’s unsweetened if you’re watching sugar levels.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze French Toast Bake?
Yes, after baking and cooling, you can freeze individual portions. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
What toppings go well with French Toast Bake?
Aside from powdered sugar and maple syrup, you can add fresh berries, whipped cream, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
French Toast Bake is a comforting and nostalgic dish that’s perfect for any morning where ease and flavor matter most. It blends the rich traditions of old-fashioned French toast with the convenience of a modern-day breakfast casserole. Whether you serve it for a festive gathering or a cozy weekend brunch, its sweet aroma and decadent taste are sure to please everyone at the table.