What type of bread works best?

Day-old brioche or challah sliced thick absorbs the custard well and offers a soft, rich texture.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the assembled dish for at least 30 minutes or overnight to enhance flavor absorption before baking.

The custard features cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and a hint of cardamom for warmth and depth.

Melted butter with brown sugar and cinnamon topping creates a golden crust, served best with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or berries.

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch, while diced apples or pears inserted between layers enhance flavor.

A comforting, custardy baked French toast infused with warm spices, perfect for easy weeknight dinners or a relaxed weekend breakfast treat.

I love making this French toast casserole for weekend brunch as it fills the house with a cozy aroma and brings everyone together around the table.

Bread: 1 loaf (about 450 g) brioche or challah, day-old, sliced thick
Custard: 4 large eggs, 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk, 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, 1/3 cup (65 g) light brown sugar, 2 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground ginger, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/8 tsp ground cardamom, Pinch of salt
Topping: 1/4 cup (55 g) unsalted butter melted, 1/4 cup (50 g) light brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Optional Garnishes: Maple syrup, Powdered sugar, Fresh berries

Step 1:: Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2:: Arrange the bread slices in the dish, overlapping slightly.
Step 3:: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, and salt until smooth.
Step 4:: Pour the custard evenly over the bread. Gently press the bread down to help it soak up the mixture.
Step 5:: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the topping. Drizzle evenly over the casserole.
Step 6:: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).
Step 7:: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 8:: Uncover and bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden brown and just set in the center.
Step 9:: Let cool slightly. Serve warm, topped with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries as desired.

This recipe often creates warm family moments as we gather together and share stories over the delightful meal.

Try adding diced apples or pears between bread layers for extra flavor. For a vegan version, use plant milk, egg replacer, and vegan bread.

9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, Large mixing bowl, Whisk, Small bowl, Measuring cups and spoons

Contains Eggs, Milk (Dairy), Wheat (Gluten). May contain Tree nuts if added as variation. Always check bread and ingredient labels for allergens.

This baked French toast casserole is a perfect balance of spice and sweetness that makes every breakfast special.

→ What type of bread works best?: Day-old brioche or challah sliced thick absorbs the custard well and offers a soft, rich texture.
→ Can I prepare it ahead of time?: Yes, refrigerate the assembled dish for at least 30 minutes or overnight to enhance flavor absorption before baking.
→ Which spices are included in the custard?: The custard features cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and a hint of cardamom for warmth and depth.
→ What toppings complement the bake?: Melted butter with brown sugar and cinnamon topping creates a golden crust, served best with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or berries.
→ Can I add nuts or fruit variations?: Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch, while diced apples or pears inserted between layers enhance flavor.