Crispy Cinnamon French Toast Casserole

Cinnamon French Toast Casserole takes everything you love about classic French toast and makes it even easier—and more delicious. With layers of cinnamon-spiced bread soaked in a rich custard and topped with crunchy pecans, it’s the kind of breakfast that feels indulgent without all the work. The best part? You can throw it together the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning, giving you more time to relax while everyone digs in.

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The aroma of this delicious casserole will have your family leaping out of bed; it’s the perfect fall and holiday breakfast dish. It’s a total crowd-pleaser that always is the first to go at brunch potlucks and it’s so simple to make. Assemble it the night before and then bake the following morning, this is a dish that family traditions are made of.

Ingredients you’ll need

You’ll need all the ingredients shown in the photograph below.

How to Make Cinnamon French Toast Casserole with Step-by-Step Instructions

Scroll down for the full recipe card containing a full printable recipe and measurements in both US customary and metric units.

If you follow my simple steps below, you’ll soon be enjoying this delicious casserole.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prep the Casserole Dish

Grab a 9″ x 13″ casserole dish and grease it up to prevent sticking. Tear or cut the French bread into bite-sized pieces and spread them evenly in the dish.

Make the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs. Then, pour in the heavy cream, milk, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until smooth.

Pour this rich mixture all over the bread chunks, making sure every piece gets coated.

Add the Pecans

Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly across the bread. Gently press them down so they’re a part of every bite.

Let it Rest

Cover the casserole and pop it in the fridge to chill overnight. If you’re short on time, let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before baking.

Make the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and chopped pecans. Cut in the cold butter using your fingers or a fork until it forms a crumbly mixture. Store this in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Bake the Casserole

Take the casserole and the topping out of the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Evenly sprinkle the crumbly topping over the casserole, then pop it into the oven.

Bake for around 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the middle is set.

Serve It Up

Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes once it’s out of the oven. Serve it warm with maple syrup, whipped cream, or some fresh berries. Trust me, it’s going to be a hit!

Recipe Notes and Expert Tips

I’ve listed some tips below to help you make the best Cinnamon French Toast Casserole ever!

• Bread Choice: Using stale French bread is key! Fresh bread can get too soggy when it soaks up the custard. Stale bread holds up better, giving you that perfect soft-inside, crispy-outside texture that makes this dish irresistible.
• Overnight Trick: Letting the casserole sit overnight not only makes breakfast a breeze, but it also allows the bread to really absorb all the flavors. The custard will penetrate every piece, giving you an even richer, more delicious bite.
• Nut-Free Option: If pecans aren’t your thing, you can easily skip them or swap in something else like raisins, dried cranberries, or even chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Just be mindful that this will change the texture and flavor slightly, but it’s still delicious.
• Topping Tip: For an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal, dust powdered sugar over the top of the casserole right before serving. It adds a lovely finish and pairs perfectly with the syrup and whipped cream.
• Dairy-Free Option: If you’re avoiding dairy, you can swap out the heavy cream and milk for almond, oat, or soy milk. You’ll still get a rich, custardy consistency without sacrificing flavor. Just make sure to use unsweetened varieties to avoid making the dish too sweet.
• Even Baking: To avoid uneven baking (especially in larger dishes), rotate your casserole halfway through the baking process. This ensures that all sides bake evenly and that the topping gets nice and crispy without burning.
• Doneness Check: Not sure if your casserole is fully baked? Stick a toothpick or knife into the center. If it comes out clean, you’re all set! If it’s still a bit wet, give it a few more minutes, but watch closely to avoid overbaking. You want the inside set, but still soft and custardy.

How to Store Leftover Cinnamon French Toast Casserole

If you have leftovers, storing them properly will ensure they taste just as good the next day. Here’s how to keep your French Toast Casserole fresh:

• Refrigeration: Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container or cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or pop it back into the oven at 325°F until warmed through. The oven method will help keep that crispy top intact.
• Freezing: French Toast Casserole doesn’t freeze well, unfortunately. The bread can get too soggy when it thaws, and the texture of the custard may become grainy. If you’re hoping to make it ahead of time, it’s best to prep everything, refrigerate it overnight, and bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
• Reheating Tips: For the best results, reheat the casserole in the oven if possible. This will help restore that crunchy topping and keep the inside soft and custardy. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave individual servings, but be aware that the topping won’t stay as crisp.

What to Serve with this Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe

This French Toast Casserole is rich, comforting, and flavorful on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can really round out your meal. Here are some ideas to elevate your breakfast or brunch spread:

Crispy Bacon or Sausage: The savory, salty crunch of bacon or sausage links is the perfect balance to the sweetness of the casserole. The combination of sweet and salty flavors makes each bite more satisfying.

Greek Yogurt or Whipped Cream: For an extra creamy element, serve your casserole with a dollop of thick Greek yogurt or whipped cream. The tanginess of yogurt pairs well with the sweetness, while whipped cream just adds an extra layer of indulgence.

Maple Syrup: You can’t go wrong with warm maple syrup! Drizzle it over the casserole for a classic touch that enhances the cinnamon and nutmeg flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, try flavored syrups like vanilla or cinnamon for a twist.

Coffee or Fresh Juice: A hot cup of coffee or espresso pairs perfectly with the warm spices in the casserole. If you prefer something cold, freshly squeezed orange juice adds a bright, citrusy note to the meal.

More Easy Breakfast Recipes for You to Try at Home

If you’re looking for more breakfast inspiration, then try these easy recipes.

• Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
• Breakfast Bagel
• Hashbrown Casserole
• Huevos Rancheros