Why You’ll Love Brioche French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Toast Croutons Recipe
This recipe combines everything you love about classic French toast with the convenience of a casserole. The brioche bread creates a soft, custardy interior, while the cinnamon toast croutons add a delightful crunch on top. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, can be prepared ahead of time, and delivers a bakery-quality flavor with minimal effort. The balance of sweetness, warmth from spices, and buttery richness makes it irresistible.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
455 g brioche bread
540 mL half and half or full cream milk
25 g cornstarch
7 large eggs
100 g brown sugar
½ tsp sea salt
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 tsp lemon or lime zest
½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
½ tsp nutmeg (optional)
225 g brioche bread
125 g unsalted or salted butter
150 g brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp salt
Directions
Start by cutting the brioche into cubes about 0.75 to 1 inch in size. If the bread is fresh, dry it in a low oven until slightly firm.
Prepare the custard by blending or whisking together the milk, eggs, brown sugar, cornstarch, salt, vanilla, and zest until smooth and lump-free.
Grease a casserole dish and spread the bread cubes evenly. Pour the custard over the bread, gently fold, and press down so all pieces absorb the mixture.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
To make the cinnamon toast croutons, melt butter with sugar and salt, then mix in cinnamon. Toss additional bread cubes in this mixture until fully coated.
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Spread the croutons evenly over the soaked casserole.
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until the center is set and reaches about 160°F internally. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Let the casserole rest briefly before serving so the topping becomes crisp.
Servings and timing
Servings: 10 portions
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 4 to 24 hours
Cook time: 50 to 60 minutes
Total time: approximately 5 to 10 hours depending on chilling
Variations
You can add fresh berries or sliced bananas between the bread layers for a fruity twist. Chocolate chips can be mixed in for a dessert-style version. For a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the topping. You can also swap brioche with challah or croissants for slightly different textures and flavors.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in the oven at 160°C until warmed through, or microwave individual servings for a quicker option. For best texture, reheating in the oven helps maintain the crispy topping.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, it’s designed to be prepared ahead and chilled for several hours or overnight.
What type of bread works best?
Brioche is ideal because of its richness, but challah or croissants also work well.
Can I use regular milk instead of half and half?
Yes, though the texture will be slightly less rich and creamy.
How do I know when it’s fully cooked?
The center should be set and reach about 160°F, not liquid or overly soft.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, bake it first, let it cool, then freeze. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
Why is my casserole soggy?
It may not have baked long enough or the bread wasn’t dried properly beforehand.
Can I skip the crouton topping?
Yes, but it adds a delicious crunchy texture that enhances the dish.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can slightly reduce it without affecting the structure too much.
What can I serve with this?
It pairs well with maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or yogurt.
Can I make it dairy-free?
You can substitute with plant-based milk and butter alternatives, though flavor will vary.
Conclusion
This brioche French toast casserole is a perfect blend of comfort and indulgence. With its creamy custard base and crisp cinnamon topping, it delivers a satisfying texture and flavor in every bite. Whether for a weekend brunch or a special gathering, it’s a reliable and crowd-pleasing dish that’s worth adding to your recipe collection.
