If you’re searching for the ultimate indulgent brunch dish that’s as cozy as it is impressive, this Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole will steal the show every single time. Imagine cubes of soft French bread enveloped in a rich, custardy mixture, generously studded with pockets of creamy cheese and finished with a buttery cinnamon crumble. Whether it’s a holiday morning, a weekend treat, or a make-ahead breakfast for family and friends, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings everyone straight to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here serves a special purpose, contributing to the dreamy texture and irresistible flavors of this Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole. Let’s take a closer look at why each component matters and how a few smart choices can really elevate the whole dish.
- French bread (day-old, about 14–16 oz): Stale or day-old bread absorbs the custard without becoming mushy, creating a perfectly soft yet structured base.
- Cream cheese (8 oz): Cut into small cubes, it melts into luscious pockets for a creamy surprise in every bite.
- Eggs (8 large): These bind everything together while delivering that classic custardy richness.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Lends moisture and makes sure the casserole bakes up tender.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds decadent texture and makes the custard extra luxurious.
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Lightly sweetens the bread soak, balancing the creaminess.
- Brown sugar (1/3 cup + 1/2 cup for topping): Layers in a caramel-like depth to both the custard and the crunchy topping.
- Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Brings in a fragrant, bakery-style aroma and rich flavor.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon + 1 teaspoon for topping): Warm and gently spicy, it transforms the custard and crumb into pure comfort.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon + 1/4 teaspoon for topping): Sharpens and lifts all the flavors—don’t skip it!
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup, for topping): A key part of the crumble, it gives that golden, bakery-style contrast.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, cold & cubed, for topping): Cold butter makes the topping crumbly and crisp as it bakes.
- Optional Garnish: Maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries: These finishing touches brighten each bite and make your casserole brunch-worthy.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step makes sure that your casserole lifts out easily after baking and that every corner gets that deliciously golden edge. Trust me, you do not want to miss a single sticky-sweet piece stuck to the pan!
Step 2: Layer the Bread and Cream Cheese
Spread half the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish, then scatter the cream cheese cubes over the top. Go ahead and distribute them well so every serving gets a pop of creamy goodness. Finish by layering the rest of the bread cubes—this layering ensures the cream cheese melts in the middle for perfect bites throughout.
Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk vigorously until everything looks well-combined and slightly frothy—this helps make sure the custard soaks in evenly and sets beautifully when baked.
Step 4: Soak the Bread
Pour the custard mixture slowly and evenly over the bread and cream cheese layers, making sure to saturate every nook and cranny. Gently press down with your hands or a spatula so that all the bread cubes soak up that custardy goodness. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or let it chill for at least 4 hours. This wait lets the flavors meld and the bread fully absorb the custard.
Step 5: Prepare the Crumb Topping
While your casserole chills, it’s time to whip up that irresistible cinnamon crumb. In a mixing bowl, stir together the flour, additional brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until you have pea-sized crumbs. Stash this topping in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pull the casserole and topping from the fridge. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the soaked bread, covering as much surface as possible for a perfect, crunchy finish. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is deeply golden and the center is set without being dry.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Allow the Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole to cool for just a few minutes before serving. This lets it set up just enough for clean slices, and the cream cheese will be perfectly gooey but not runny. Bring on the toppings and dig in—this is comfort food at its best!
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
Garnishes
Garnishing is where the fun really begins! Drizzle warm maple syrup over each slice for that classic flavor, or dust lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant bakery-style finish. A handful of fresh berries adds a pop of color and a tangy lift—blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries all pair beautifully with the casserole’s sweetness.
Side Dishes
This Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is pretty rich on its own, but if you’re serving a crowd, pair it with simple sides like crisp bacon, sausage links, or a fresh fruit salad to round out your brunch table. A small bowl of Greek yogurt on the side is also lovely, especially if you want a little tang to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your presentation! Try serving individual portions in ramekins for a more personalized breakfast, or set up a build-your-own toppings bar with whipped cream, toasted nuts, and fruit compotes so everyone can customize their slice. For entertaining, cut the casserole into bite-sized pieces and serve with toothpicks for a brunch party—because who can resist French toast on a stick?
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Just cover your baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to airtight containers. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, and honestly, some say it’s even better the next morning when the flavors have had extra time to come together!
Freezing
Freezing is a breeze for this recipe. After baking and cooling completely, wrap the casserole (or individual portions) tightly in plastic and foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop slices in the microwave for quick weekday breakfasts or warm the whole pan in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through. Be sure to cover with foil to prevent drying out, and add a fresh dusting of powdered sugar or splash of syrup before serving to revive that just-baked magic.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Breakfast, Brunch
Absolutely! While French bread absorbs the custard beautifully, you can use challah, brioche, or any sturdy white bread you have on hand. Just make sure it’s a bit stale and firm so it soaks up the mixture without getting soggy.
Is it possible to make Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese, milk, and cream with your favorite non-dairy options (like almond or oat milk and dairy-free cream cheese). The flavor and texture will change slightly, but you’ll still have a delicious casserole.
What if I don’t have time to chill overnight?
If you’re short on time, 4 hours in the fridge will do the trick. The important thing is making sure the bread cubes have absorbed the custard, so a little extra pressing and soaking goes a long way if you’re in a hurry.
Can I add fruit directly into the casserole?
Definitely! Sliced strawberries, blueberries, or even diced apples taste fantastic when layered between the bread. The fruit will soften during baking, infusing every bite with juicy bursts of flavor.
How do I know when the casserole is fully baked?
You’ll know it’s ready when the top is deeply golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The center should feel set but still slightly soft, never dry.
Final Thoughts
Making Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is a true joy, both for the cook and everyone gathered at the table. It’s the kind of dish that makes memories and turns ordinary mornings into special occasions. Give it a whirl and see how quickly it becomes a new favorite in your breakfast rotation!
Print
Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a decadent breakfast treat with this Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole. A delightful make-ahead dish that marries the richness of cream cheese with the comforting flavors of French toast, perfect for a cozy morning or special brunch.
Ingredients
Main Casserole:
- 1 loaf French bread (day-old, about 14–16 oz), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 oz cream cheese, cut into small cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Optional Garnish:
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh berries
Instructions
- Grease the baking dish: Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the casserole: Spread half of the bread cubes in the dish, add cream cheese, then top with remaining bread.
- Prepare the custard: Whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Pour over bread, press down, cover, and chill.
- Make the topping: Combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, salt, and butter to form crumbs. Chill.
- Bake: Sprinkle topping on casserole, bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Cool slightly, garnish as desired, and enjoy!
Notes
- Enhance with fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or apples between layers.
- Casserole reheats well and can be frozen post-baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
