Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Brioche French Toast Cesserole combines the best parts of French toast – the custard-soaked brioche with a crispy, caramelized top – in an easy-to-make, make-ahead casserole. It’s not only incredibly flavorful, but it’s also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruit, maple syrup, or powdered sugar. This dish also gives you the flexibility to prep it the night before, saving you time on the morning of your special occasion or busy weekend.

Ingredients

1 loaf brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for greasing the baking dish)
Maple syrup (optional, for serving)
Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
Arrange the cubed brioche bread evenly in the prepared dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to ensure all the bread is soaked. If the bread isn’t fully submerged, you can add a little extra milk or cream.
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best flavor.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy and the center is set.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Top with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour or overnight chilling)
Bake time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Berry Brioche French Toast Casserole: Add a cup of fresh or frozen mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries) to the bread before adding the custard mixture for a fruity twist.
Chocolate Brioche French Toast Casserole: Stir in some chocolate chips or chunks into the custard mixture for a decadent, chocolaty flavor.
Nutty Brioche French Toast Casserole: Top the casserole with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts before baking for added texture and flavor.
Caramel Brioche French Toast Casserole: Drizzle the casserole with caramel sauce before or after baking for a sweet, rich topping.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make Brioche French Toast Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to fully soak up the custard mixture for a richer flavor.

2. Can I use a different type of bread instead of brioche?

Yes, you can use challah, French bread, or any sturdy bread that will soak up the custard without falling apart.

3. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free bread as a substitute for regular brioche to make this recipe gluten-free.

4. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the milk and heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free butter substitute.

5. Can I freeze Brioche French Toast Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes.

6. Can I add more spices to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add a pinch of ground ginger, cardamom, or cloves for additional warmth and flavor.

7. Do I need to use heavy cream in this recipe?

No, if you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with more milk. The casserole will still be delicious, but the texture might be slightly less rich.

8. Can I serve this casserole without baking it?

While it’s typically baked, you can try serving it as a no-bake dish by soaking the bread overnight and serving it as a chilled pudding-style dish. However, it will lack the crispy, caramelized top that makes it so delicious.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a larger baking dish, adjusting the bake time as needed.

10. Can I add toppings to the casserole before baking?

You can add toppings such as nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking. This will give the casserole a nice crunch and extra flavor.

Conclusion

Brioche French Toast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich flavor of brioche with a creamy, spiced custard. It’s the perfect make-ahead dish for brunch, holidays, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. The ease of preparation, combined with its indulgent taste and texture, makes it a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.