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Transform your breakfast routine with this indulgent and incredibly easy to make baked French toast casserole. Featuring buttery bread soaked in a rich custard made with warming cinnamon, inviting vanilla, and sweet maple syrup, then topped with a crunchy toasted pecan streusel, and baked to golden perfection, this overnight French toast casserole with pecans will have your kitchen smelling like a bakery and your tastebuds begging for more!
Update: This recipe was originally published in November 2018. I’ve made updates to the post below to include more information about making this recipe for Cinnamon French Toast at home.
Hey, friends! If you’re looking for a new breakfast or brunch recipe to start our morning off right, look no further than this recipe overnight baked french toast casserole!
Perfect for leisurely weekend brunches or a holiday feast fit for a queen (or king), this French toast bake is the ideal combination of comfort, convenience, and deliciousness. With minimal prep (about 15 minutes), basic ingredients, and a no-fuss method, you can enjoy a gourmet breakfast without the hassle. Wohoo!
Table of Contents
About this overnight french toast casserole
This breakfast casserole is absolute perfection!
Buttery brioche bread layered with cozy, warming cinnamon and crunchy, nutty pecans, and drenched with a sticky maple syrup and sweet brown sugar flavored custard. Topped with a tender, crumbly pecan streusel and baked until golden brown and delicious, this Cinnamon French Toast is bursting with flavor!
Easy to prepare and even easier to devour, this breakfast bake is perfect for lazy morning brunch with the family, yet elegant enough for serving a crowd during the holidays!
If you’re looking for more cinnamon-y breakfast recipes, be sure to try these fan-favorites next: Cinnamon Waffles, Sugar Cinnamon Toast, and Coffee Cake in a Mug with Cinnamon Swirl.
Why you will love this recipe
- Easy to Prepare. Skip the hassle of flipping individual slices of toast and simply bake it all at once for a perfect, evenly cooked breakfast casserole dish. This French toast casserole with pecans is perfect for impressing with ease!
- Irresistible Flavor. The combination of warming cinnamon, rich vanilla, and caramel-like maple syrup creates a luscious custard while the crunchy, sweet pecan streusel topping makes each bite unforgettable.
- Make-Ahead Convenience. Prep this French toast cinnamon casserole the night before and simply bake it in the morning for a fuss-free breakfast or brunch.
- Crowd Pleaser, Perfect for Holidays. Whether it’s a family gathering, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday brunch, this French toast will get rave reviews from everyone around your table.
Ingredients in cinnamon French toast bake
- Bread: You need a loaf of bread, approximately 14 to 16 ounces in size, for this cinnamon French toast recipe. I prefer butter brioche or cinnamon swirl bread for a rich, decadent casserole; however, you can use any bread you would like.
- Pecans: Pecans are totally optional, but they add a delicious salty, crunchy element to this breakfast casserole! Substitute: Any variety of your favorite nut, such as walnuts.
- Eggs: You need eight large eggs to make the custard. As the casserole bakes, the eggs help firm up the liquids in the bread, giving the French toast casserole that classic luscious, yet crisp texture!
- Milk: I like to use a combination of whole milk and half-and-half for a touch of richness. Substitute: Use heavy cream if you prefer a richer and RumChata or Irish Cream for a boozy, adult version.
- Sugar: Brown sugar adds a touch of sweet, caramel flavor that just can’t be beat. You can use dark or light brown sugar in this recipe; however, I typically use light.
- Flavorings: A combination of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and kosher salt all provide a ton of warming, inviting flavor.
- Streusel: The streusel topping is completely optional, but I highly recommend it if you’re looking for the ULTIMATE French toast casserole with pecans. It’s simply a mixture of flour, brown sugar, pecans, cinnamon, salt, and butter; however, it forms the perfect soft crumble topping that enhances all the flavors in this overnight casserole.
Recipe variations
- Dairy-free option: To make dairy-free French toast casserole, swap out the dairy milk for almond milk or coconut milk! Also, make sure you grease your making dish with a cooking spray or non-dairy butter substitute, instead of butter!
- Gluten-free option: You can easily make this French toast casserole gluten free! To do so, replace the brioche bread with gluten-free bread and substitute gluten-free flour for all purpose flour.
Expert tips to ensure the most success!
- Use the Right Bread. It’s imperative you use a dry and thick, sturdy bread such as French bread, challah, brioche, or cinnamon swirl. Stale, day-old bread is best because it absorbs the egg custard without falling apart and disintegrating. If all you have on hand is fresh bread, be sure to lightly toast it before assembling the casserole
- Press the Bread into the Custard. After you pour the custard over the bread, make sure you cover the dish with a sheet of plastic wrap and gently press the bread into the custard – this will ensure the bread evenly absorbs all the liquid!
- Let it Sit Overnight. For the best results, be sure to refrigerate the breakfast casserole for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal. This gives the bread time to soak up the custard and infuses it with the cinnamon and maple flavors.
- Let Casserole Come to Room Temperature Before Baking. Make sure you pull the cinnamon French toast bake out of the refrigerator and let it sit on the counter for at least 30 minutes before baking! If you bake it cold, the casserole will bake unevenly and your baking dish may crack due to the harsh and sudden change in temperature!
- Add Toppings. Remember, you eat with your eyes first, so consider topping the French toast pecan casserole with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of maple syrup or caramel sauce, and/or a sprinkling of powdered sugar for added sweetness. (Psst – There’s a full list of yummy topping ideas below!)
Step-by-step photos: making this recipe at home
(Don’t forget to scroll down for the in-depth measurements and instructions in the complete printable recipe card at the bottom of the post!)
FAQs: frequently asked questions
What’s the best bread for baked French toast?
You can use any bread you love to make French toast; however, certain breads will work better than others!
- Brioche: Brioche is a rich, eggy, buttery yeast bread that produces an undeniably decadent French toast casserole! Brioche is truly the best and it’s my favorite bread to use when making any variety of French toast!
- Challah: Challah is very similar to brioche bread, except it is Kosher and made without any dairy (butter). If I can’t find brioche at the store, I will typically use Challah to prepare French toast.
- Cinnamon Bread: If you are looking for an extra cinnamon oomph, Cinnamon Swirl Bread or Cinnamon Raisin bread are great options! However, I recommend you look for a loaf either cut into thick slices or uncut so you can cut it yourself. If you purchase a loaf with thin slices of bread they will disintegrate in the casserole.
- Artisan Breads: Crusty breads, such as sourdough or French Baguette, make delicious French toast!
- Croissants: While totally untraditional, flaky, buttery croissants are amazing in french toast!! I recommend looking for croissants that are uncut so you can dice them into large cubes.
- White Sandwich Bread: Good ole’ classic sandwich bread will work just fine if you are in a pinch! However, as I mentioned above, it’s best to use a loaf that is cut into thick slices or totally uncut so you can cut it into large, thick cubes yourself!
- Wheat Bread: If you prefer wheat over white breads, you can absolutely use a wheat bread to prepare French toast! For the best hearty taste and texture, I recommend using a whole wheat artisan bread!
Do cinnamon French toast casseroles have to sit overnight?
No, a French toast casserole does not have to sit overnight. However, allowing the casserole to sit in the refrigerator overnight, or at least 4 hours, will produce the best texture and flavor!
With that said, if you are in a rush, you can bake French toast right away. Just keep in mind your casserole will not have the same classic custard texture and flavor!
How long should you bake French toast?
You should bake a French toast casserole at 350-degrees Fahrenheit for 50 to 65 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the center is no longer jiggly. The precise length of time your French toast needs to bake will depend upon the depth of you baking dish and the actual temperature of your oven.
What are the some toppings I can use?
Toppings are arguably the best part of French toast and there are limitless, delicious possibilities! Below are a few of my family’s favorite ways to top this French toast casserole!
- Maple Syrup: Maple syrup is a classic French toast topping for a good reason – it’s sticky, sweet and always a fan favorite!
- Confectioner’s Sugar: Sprinkling or sifting a bit of powdered sugar adds a delicious touch sweetness and a beautiful aesthetic!
- Icing: If you want to go all in, I highly recommend drizzling your baked french toast with cream cheese icing – it’s rich, decadent and pairs perfectly with the warm, cinnamon flavors! (There’s an easy homemade icing recipe in the notes section of the recipe card below!)
- Fruit: Fresh fruit is a great way to add a pop of color to the top of your casserole! Strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and raspberries all taste delicious with this French toast!
- Bacon: Stop serving your bacon on the side of your French toast and start using it as a crispy, delicious topping! If you want next level delicious, try candying your bacon!
- Honey: If you find yourself out of maple syrup, honey is a delicious French toast topping alternative!
- Whipped Cream: Airy, super creamy whipped cream is the perfect topping if you are looking to indulge!
Serving French toast cinnamon casserole
French toast is a hearty meal that you can enjoy on its own! However, if you are serving a crowd, below are a few breakfast and side dishes that pair perfectly with this cinnamon toast!
- Breakfast Meats: One or more of your family’s favorite breakfast meats, such as sausage links, sausage patties, candy bacon, ham or Canadian ham.
- Eggs: Eggs prepared your favorite way – everything from scrambled, poached, fried, sunny-side up, rolled omeletes, fluffy omelets, or a crustless quiche are great pairings.
- Fresh Fruit: Fresh fruit is a great way to lighten things up! Anything from your favorite fruit to a macerated fruit salad will pair beautifully.
- Yogurt or Cottage Cheese: I actually love the combination of creamy whipped yogurt or cottage cheese with crisp French toast – don’t knock it till you try it.
- Granola: Crispy, savory granola is a delicious side option and even works as a topping for French toast. Try using this cinnamon granola or a granola with dried berries for a fruity sweetness that will complement the savory flavors in this casserole.
- Bakery Goodies: If you’re looking for a cinnamon sugary pairing option, look no further than my favorite doughnut muffin recipe or Easy Cheese Danish Recipe.
Storing leftovers
To keep your casserole tasting fresh as at its best, store baked cinnamon French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, leftovers will keep for up to 4 days.
Freezing instructions
You can freeze this French toast casserole either before or after baking!
- To freeze French toast casserole before baking: Follow the instructions in the recipe below (do not top with streusel until ready to bake), making sure to assemble the casserole in a freezer and oven safe casserole dish. Once you have assembled the French toast casserole, take care to wrap the dish in plastic wrap a couple times and then cover in foil. You can store the fully-assembled (unbaked) casserole in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- To cook frozen French toast casserole, allow the casserole to thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then top with streusel and bake according to the directions in the recipe.
- To freeze a fully-baked French toast casserole, bake according to the recipe below (but do not glaze the top). Wrap the cooled casserole in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat frozen baked French toast casserole, allow the casserole to thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat according to the instructions below.
Reheating instructions
Leftover cinnamon French toast makes the perfect easy heat-and-eat breakfast, lunch and dinner! There are two different ways you can reheat this casserole, depending upon your preference!
- Oven: Tent the top of the casserole dish with aluminum foil. Bake at 350-degrees for 15 minutes, then uncover the casserole and continue baking for 15 minutes, or until just warm throughout.
- Microwave: Cut an individual serving of baked French toast and place it on a microwavable dish. Reheat for 1 minute. If your casserole is still a little too cold for your liking, continue to microwave in 30-second increments, or until warm throughout. Note: The exact length of time you will need to reheat the casserole will depend upon the size of your serving and the strength of your microwave!
Step up your breakfast or brunch game with this baked Cinnamon French Toast Casserole! This breakfast bake is easy to prepare in advance, dreamy in the taste department and totally guaranteed to be a hit with both you and your family!
Until next week friends, cheers – to breakfast kicked up a notch!
Cheyanne
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More breakfast casserole recipes!
If you love this easy cinnamon breakfast, try one of these delicious recipes next:
Baked Cinnamon French Toast
Equipment
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Medium Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
Cinnamon French Toast Bake:
- 1 (14-ounce) Loaf Brioche Bread (Challah or French Bread) – cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 ¾ Cup Pecans – halves or chopped
- 8 Large Eggs
- 2 Cups Whole Milk
- ½ Cup Half-and-Half – can substitute heavy cream
- ¼ Cup Light Brown Sugar – packed
- ¼ Cup Pure Maple Syrup (SEE NOTES)
- 1 TBS Vanilla Extract
- ½ tsp EACH: Sea Salt & Ground Cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp Ground Nutmeg
Streusel Topping:
- ½ Cup All Purpose Flour
- ½ Cup Light Brown Sugar – packed
- ½ tsp EACH: Ground Cinnamon & Kosher Salt
- ½ Cup Cold Unsalted Butter – cubed
- ½ Cup Pecans – chopped
For serving: Cream Cheese Icing (recipe below), Powdered Sugar or Cinnamon Sugar, Maple Syrup, Fresh Fruit (Bananas are really good!)
Instructions
- Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.Prepare the French toast casserole: Place half of the cubed bread into the baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of pecans evenly over the bread. Repeat with remaining bread and pecans. Set aside.
- Prepare the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining French toast casserole ingredients (the eggs through nutmeg).
- Pour custard over bread: Pour the prepared custard (egg and milk mixture) over the bread. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap. Use your hands to gently press down on the bread so that all the cubes are soaking in the custard. Chill – Optional, but recommended: Refrigerate overnight or set aside in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the streusel. (SEE NOTES)
- Prepare the streusel: In a medium bowl or food processor, whisk (or pulse) together the flour, sugar, cinnamon and salt. Add in the butter and using your fingertips, fork or pastry cutter, mix the ingredients together until the butter resembles small crumbs. Stir in the pecans. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.*
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let sit on the counter to remove the chill while oven preheats.Preheat oven: Position rack in the center of the oven and preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Add Streusel & Bake: Uncover the baking dish and sprinkle the prepared streusel mixture evenly over the casserole. Transfer the casserole to the oven and place a large sheet pan on the rack below the baking dish (SEE NOTES). Bake for 50 minutes – 65 minutes, or until the casserole is set and no longer jiggly in the center. (Tip: If the top of the casserole starts to brown too quickly near the end of baking, lightly tent the casserole with aluminum foil and continue baking. Note: The precise length of time your casserole needs to bake will depend upon the depth of your casserole dish! I used a 2 1/2-inch deep baking dish, so my French toast took around 62 minutes to bake.)
- Serve: Remove the casserole and place it on a wire rack to cool for 5-10 minutes. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and cinnamon or drizzle with icing. Slice, serve and enjoy!
Video
Notes
- Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is not the same thing as pancake syrup! I do not recommend substituting pancake syrup for real maple syrup in this recipe. Pure maple syrup is made from the sap of maple trees. The sap is then boiled down to remove most of the water and concentrate the flavor. Pancake syrup is simply high-fructose corn syrup with flavorings. They are not interchangeable.
- Overnight Chill: While this French toast casserole tastes best if allowed to sit overnight in the refrigerator before baking, it is not absolutely necessary. For best result, allow the casserole to sit in the refrigerator for 4 or more hours. If you are in a rush, you can bake it right away, however the casserole won’t have its signature custard texture.
- Baking: The casserole will puff up considerably as it bakes. I recommend placing a large sheet pan or cookie pan on the oven rack directly under the baking dish to catch any crumbs that could possibly overflow the sides of the dish.
- To make this gluten free: Replace brioche bread with gluten-free bread and substitute gluten-free flour for all purpose flour.
- How to serve: This baked cinnamon french toast is delicious served plain, drizzled with maple syrup, sprinkled with powdered sugar, or you can go all out and drizzle it with a homemade cream cheese icing – Recipe below!
Nutrition
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Rate and Comment!
Did you make this recipe? WONDERFUL! Please rate the recipe below!
Kim
Can I make this a day ahead and reheat?
Cheyanne Holzworth
Hi Kim,
Absolutely – I cover storing and reheating leftovers here: https://www.nospoonnecessary.com/cinnamon-pecan-french-toast-casserole/#h-storing-leftovers
Let me know if you have any other questions as I’m always happy to help when I can. Cheers and warmest wishes for a wonderful day!
Best,
Cheyanne
Kelly | Foodtasia
Oh YUM! So loving the flavors in this French toast casserole! The texture looks so perfect and that streusel – GAAHHH! Heavenly! My kids love a special breakfast!
Ben @ Havocinthekitchen
One year has passed (One more year! Okay, let’s not be pessimistic about the time flying at least in December). But at least nothing has changed regards this French Toast Casserole. It’s still beyond delicious and amazing, rich, moist, and just perfect for the winter holidays!
Mary Ann | The Beach House Kitchen
I remember this one fondly Chey. And love the updated pics and video! This is just perfect for the holiday season. Such a cozy breakfast and you know how much I love my pecans and brioche. Count me in! Pinned!
Kelsie | the itsy-bitsy kitchen
Brioche on its own is a treat but baked into French toast? Sign me up! I can’t get over how good this looks. Chey! And I can’t wait to try it! Have a great week ahead!
Millican Pecan
Being in the pecan business, I am always looking at pecan recipes. I didn’t see this one coming! Pecan French Toast Casserole… this is something completely different. I love cinnamon french toast and I love pecans so to put them together is natural but to make them into a casserole has really peaked my interest. I am looking forward to this one. Thanks for sharing your recipe.
Ben|Havocinthekitchen
While I think breakfast is the most important meal of a day, I normally don’t have much time throughout the week, so I have something simple like yogurt or cottage cheese. On the other hand, I do love weekend breakfasts & brunches even though I don’t make something complicated too often. There’s an embarrassing secret: sometimes I get my early breakfast then take…a short nap…and what happens after the nap? Right – another breakfast! 🙂 And this french toast casserole looks phenomenal, Chey! Did you say it can serve a crowd? I’ll eat the entire dish all by myself!
Kevin
What a great make a head breakfast or brunch meal, perfect for those holiday mornings!
angiesrecipes
What an amazing casserole to wake up to! I MUST bake a huge batch for this coming holiday too. Thanks for sharing, Chey.
Arpita
I am totally drooling over this french toast casserole.. This is definitely going to be our Sunday brunch this week.. So delicious!!
Marissa
OMG! Cheyanne, this is SO what I’m making for breakfast Christmas morning. My family will lose their minds!!! Thank you so much for this delicious inspiration!
Mary Ann | The Beach House Kitchen
I LOVE breakfast too Chey and Tom and I often enjoy it for dinner also! I’d actually enjoy this french toast casserole for any meal of the day! You can’t beat a cozy dish like this around the holidays! And I love that you used the brioche! This one is totally dreamy!
Kelsie | the itsy-bitsy kitchen
I want this for breakfast, lunch, and dinner! Breakfast is my favorite too and it just got even better. I mean, brioche and cinnamon and pecans? It’s a dream! Have a great weekend, Chey!