Description
This easy Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole is a warm, comforting breakfast combining fluffy French toast soaked in a cinnamon-spiced custard with gooey swirls of cinnamon sugar, all baked together into an irresistible dish. Perfect for busy mornings or brunches, it offers a customizable and make-ahead friendly option that serves a crowd and delights every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 6–8 thick slices or 4 cups cubed day-old sturdy bread (such as brioche, challah, or Texas toast)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (or plant-based milk for dairy-free option)
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Topping and Glaze
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter or plant-based butter, sliced for dotting on top
- Powdered sugar glaze: 1/2 cup powdered sugar mixed with 1-2 tbsp almond or vanilla plant-based milk for drizzling
Optional Variations
- Chopped pecans or walnuts for sprinkling
- Fresh berries, diced apples, or sliced bananas for layering
- Pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to add to cinnamon sugar mixture or custard
- Cream cheese frosting for glaze alternative
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread and Cinnamon Mixture: Cube your favorite thick, sturdy bread. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon to create the cinnamon sugar mixture that will be layered between the bread cubes for that classic cinnamon roll swirl.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and a touch of cinnamon until fully combined. This custard mixture will soak into the bread, giving the casserole its rich texture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a baking dish with butter. Layer half of the bread cubes in the dish, sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the bread, then repeat the layering with the remaining bread and cinnamon sugar. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layers, pressing lightly to ensure all bread soaks up the custard.
- Refrigerate: Cover the assembled casserole and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight. This soaking step allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, creating a creamy texture.
- Bake: Before baking, dot the top of the casserole with slices of butter. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set in the center.
- Add the Glaze: After allowing the casserole to cool slightly, drizzle the powdered sugar glaze over the top to add a sweet finish reminiscent of cinnamon roll frosting.
Notes
- Use sturdy bread like brioche, challah, or Texas toast for best texture and soaking.
- Do not skip the refrigeration soak; it ensures rich custard penetration into the bread.
- For added texture, sprinkle nuts or extra cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
- Serve the casserole warm for gooey, fresh flavor.
- Prepare the casserole fully the night before to save time in the morning.
- Substitute plant-based milk and butter to make dairy-free and vegan-friendly versions.
- Gluten-free bread can be used; choose sturdier types to prevent sogginess.
- To avoid sogginess, use slightly stale bread and avoid over-soaking the custard.
- For a different spice profile, replace cinnamon sugar with sugar and pumpkin pie spice or nutmeg.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8th of casserole)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Keywords: cinnamon roll french toast casserole, breakfast casserole, brunch recipe, make-ahead breakfast, cinnamon sugar custard, baked French toast