Easy French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Streusel Recipe for Perfect Breakfast

“You’re going to want to try this,” my friend said, sliding a steaming dish across the table. I was skeptical — I mean, French toast is French toast, right? But this casserole, with its golden baked top and crumbly cinnamon streusel, changed my whole brunch game. Honestly, it started as one of those “I’m too tired to cook but want something cozy” moments. I threw leftover bread, eggs, and a handful of pantry staples into a dish and let it rest overnight. When it came out of the oven the next morning, the kitchen smelled like a bakery, and the texture was unlike anything I’d expected — crispy edges meeting soft, custardy bread inside. Since then, I can’t stop making this easy French toast casserole with cinnamon streusel.

The best part? It’s forgiving and flexible, perfect for when your morning is chaotic or when you want to impress guests without a ton of fuss. I’ve made it during rushed holiday mornings and slow weekend paces alike — every time, it feels like a warm hug on a plate. And honestly, that cinnamon streusel topping? It’s the kind of detail that turns simple breakfast into something quietly special, the kind of dish that makes you pause and smile before digging in.

This recipe stuck with me because it’s easy to customize and doesn’t require a million ingredients or fancy techniques. Plus, it’s just the right balance of sweet and comforting without being overwhelming. If you like the idea of a breakfast that practically makes itself and tastes like a treat, this casserole is worth your time. No stress, just pure morning magic.

Why You’ll Love This Easy French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Streusel

After testing and tweaking this recipe more times than I can count, I can honestly say it nails that perfect breakfast vibe — easy, delicious, and crowd-pleasing. Here’s what makes this recipe stand out:

• Quick & Easy: Prep takes less than 15 minutes, and it bakes while you get a few things done or relax. Great for busy mornings when you want something special without the stress.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy shopping trips required — odds are you already have most of these in your pantry or fridge.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a casual weekend brunch or a holiday wake-up, this casserole feeds a crowd and gets rave reviews every time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids love the sweet cinnamon streusel, while adults appreciate the rich custard-soaked bread — it hits all the right notes.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The crunchy cinnamon topping contrasts with the soft, creamy inside, making every bite a little celebration.
• Unique Twist: Instead of your usual French toast, the streusel topping adds a layer of texture and flavor that makes this casserole feel thoughtfully crafted but totally doable.

Honestly, this isn’t just any French toast casserole — it’s the version that made me close my eyes after the first bite and want to make it again the very next week. The cinnamon streusel adds a cozy, nostalgic flair that makes it feel like a breakfast you’d find in a cozy bed and breakfast, but without the fuss or fancy ingredients. If you want to impress guests or just treat yourself on a lazy weekend morning, this recipe has got you covered.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most are pantry staples or easy to find, and there’s room to swap in your favorites if needed.

• For the Casserole Base:
• 8 cups day-old bread cubes (about 10 slices of thick-cut bread like brioche or challah) — staler bread soaks up the custard better
• 6 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of choice; almond or oat milk work well for dairy-free)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (adds richness but can be swapped for extra milk)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract (pure is best for that deep, warm flavor)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• For the Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, adds warmth)
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed (I prefer Kerrygold for creaminess)
• Pinch of salt

Ingredient Tips: If you want a gluten-free version, almond flour or gluten-free baking mixes can usually replace the flour in the streusel. For dairy-free, swap butter with coconut oil and milk with your favorite plant-based milk. Fresh cinnamon is key here — it really lifts the flavor.

Equipment Needed

• 9×13 inch baking dish (glass or ceramic works best for even baking)
• Medium mixing bowl for the custard
• Small bowl for the streusel topping
• Whisk or fork for mixing eggs and milk
• Pastry cutter or two forks to blend the streusel (or your fingers, if you don’t mind a little mess!)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Optional: Stand mixer with paddle attachment for quick streusel mixing

If you don’t have a pastry cutter, no worries — I often use two forks or just my fingers to work the butter into the flour and sugar. A 9×13 dish is pretty standard, but if yours is a little smaller or larger, just adjust the baking time slightly. For cleanup, a ceramic dish tends to hold heat well and browns the casserole nicely, but glass shows you the bubbling custard, which is fun to watch.

Preparation Method

1. Prep the Bread: Cube your day-old bread into roughly 1-inch pieces. Stale bread is best to soak up the custard without turning mushy. Spread the cubes evenly in your greased 9×13 inch baking dish. (About 8 cups or roughly 10 thick slices.)
2. Make the Custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups whole milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup sugar, 2 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp salt until smooth. The cinnamon here brings warmth to the custard base, making every bite cozy.
3. Combine: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Use a spatula to gently press down the bread so it starts absorbing the custard. Don’t stir — you want the bread to soak but keep some texture.
4. Rest: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step is crucial — it lets the bread soak fully, so you end up with that custardy, soft center and crispy edges.
5. Prepare the Cinnamon Streusel: In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup packed brown sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional), and a pinch of salt. Add 6 tbsp cold, cubed unsalted butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Some larger chunks are perfect — they add texture when baked.
6. Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Top and Bake: Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the soaked bread. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the custard is set (a knife inserted in the center should come out clean).
8. Cool Slightly: Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This rest time helps the custard finish setting and makes it easier to cut.

If you notice the streusel browning too fast, tent the dish loosely with foil halfway through baking. The smell while baking is just unreal — sweet cinnamon and buttery bread wafting through the house. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Cooking Tips & Techniques for the Best French Toast Casserole

Making this easy French toast casserole with cinnamon streusel is pretty straightforward, but a few tricks can make all the difference.

• Use Day-Old Bread: Fresh bread gets soggy fast. Using bread that’s a day or two old helps it soak up custard without falling apart. Thick-cut brioche or challah gives a rich, tender crumb.
• Room Temperature Eggs & Milk: Mixing eggs and milk at room temp helps everything blend smoothly and prevent clumping.
• Don’t Skip the Rest: Sitting overnight may feel like extra effort, but it’s what creates that custardy texture. I’ve tried baking immediately, and it just doesn’t have the same magic.
• Streusel Texture: When mixing butter into the streusel, aim for pea-sized lumps. Too fine and it bakes flat; too chunky and it won’t hold together well.
• Watch Your Oven: Oven temps vary — if your streusel is browning too quickly, tent with foil to avoid burning while the inside finishes baking.
• Multitasking Tip: While the casserole bakes, it’s a perfect time to whip up coffee, set the table, or even prep quick sides like fresh fruit or crispy bacon.

I once skipped the rest step in a pinch, and the texture was noticeably off — lesson learned! Also, I find using a glass dish lets me peek at the bubbling custard without opening the oven too often.

Variations & Adaptations to Make It Your Own

This easy French toast casserole with cinnamon streusel is a great base to experiment with. Here are some ideas I’ve tried or recommend:

• Fruit Add-In: Toss fresh or frozen berries, sliced apples, or diced pears into the bread mixture before custard for a fruity twist. In summer, fresh berries bring a bright contrast.
• Nutty Streusel: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon streusel for extra crunch and depth.
• Chocolate Lovers: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the custard mixture or streusel for a sweet surprise.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter in streusel and swap milk/cream for coconut or almond milk. The texture changes slightly but is still delicious.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the custard for a warm, exotic note.

I once made a version with a layer of cream cheese swirled in before baking — it was decadently rich and perfect for a special occasion. Feel free to get creative — this casserole is forgiving and loves variations.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This casserole is best served warm, right out of the oven when the cinnamon streusel is still crisp. I like to pair it with fresh fruit, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch. Coffee or hot tea rounds out the meal beautifully.

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to bring back some crispness. You can freeze portions wrapped tightly for up to a month; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Interestingly, the flavors deepen after a day — the cinnamon and vanilla notes mellow and meld, making leftovers even more comforting. It’s a perfect make-ahead dish for busy mornings or unexpected guests.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This casserole offers a balanced breakfast option with protein from eggs and calcium from milk, alongside satisfying carbs from bread. Here’s a rough estimate per serving (based on 8 servings):

Calories	~350 kcal
Protein	12 g
Fat	15 g
Carbohydrates	38 g
Sugar	15 g
Fiber	2 g

The cinnamon adds antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits, while whole milk and eggs supply important vitamins and minerals for energy and satiety. Using whole grain or sprouted bread can bump up fiber and nutrients if you want a health-focused twist.

Keep in mind the streusel adds sweetness and fat, but it’s a treat that pairs well with a balanced diet. For lower sugar, reduce the brown sugar in the topping or swap for a natural sweetener like maple syrup or coconut sugar.

Conclusion

This easy French toast casserole with cinnamon streusel has become a go-to when I want a breakfast that feels special with minimal effort. It’s forgiving, customizable, and always hits that cozy, comforting note we all crave in the morning. The cinnamon streusel topping is the little touch that makes it stand out — crunchy, sweet, and a bit nostalgic.

Whether you’re feeding family, hosting brunch, or just treating yourself, this recipe adapts to your needs and tastes. Try mixing in your favorite fruits or nuts, or swap ingredients to fit your diet. I love how this dish invites creativity without overwhelming the cook.

If you find yourself wanting something sweet but not complicated, this casserole is where it’s at. And hey, if you enjoy easy recipes with a twist, you might want to check out my mini lemon blueberry cheesecakes recipe perfect for parties or browse more ideas on my recipes page for lots of delicious inspiration.

Give it a try, and let me know how you customize your casserole. It’s always exciting to hear how a simple dish brings a little joy to the table.

FAQs About Easy French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Streusel

Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?

Fresh bread can work, but it tends to get mushy since it soaks up less custard. If you only have fresh bread, try toasting it lightly first to dry it out a bit.

How far in advance can I prepare this casserole?

You can assemble and refrigerate it overnight or up to 24 hours before baking. This resting time helps the bread soak fully and develop that custardy texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free bread and swap the all-purpose flour in the streusel for a gluten-free baking mix or almond flour. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Microwaving for 30 seconds works for a quick warm-up, but reheating in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 10-15 minutes helps restore the crispy streusel topping.

Can I double this recipe for a bigger crowd?

Absolutely. Use a larger baking dish and increase baking time slightly, checking for doneness by inserting a knife in the center — it should come out clean when fully cooked.

Print