Cinnamon Vanilla Baked French Toast
This Cinnamon Vanilla Baked French Toast is a weekend breakfast classic with a make-ahead twist. Featuring thick chunks of bread soaked in a rich vanilla-cinnamon custard and topped with a golden brown sugar crumble, it’s the ultimate comforting casserole.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 55 minutes mins
Chilling Time 12 hours hrs
Total Time 13 hours hrs 10 minutes mins
For the French Toast:
- 1 15 oz loaf French bread, cut into large cubes (preferably day-old)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup half and half
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
Grease a 2.5-quart baking dish and place bread cubes evenly inside.
In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, half and half, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla until well combined.
Pour custard mixture evenly over the bread. Press down gently to help bread absorb the liquid. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
For the topping: combine brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add butter and mix with fingers or a fork until crumbly. Cover and chill.
When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Crumble topping evenly over the casserole.
Bake uncovered for 40–55 minutes, or until golden, puffed, and set in the center.
Let cool slightly. Serve warm with maple syrup.
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Use a deep dish to prevent overflow as the custard bakes.
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Press the bread down after pouring custard to ensure full absorption.
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Try with brioche or challah for a richer base.
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Topping can be made in advance and kept in the fridge.
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Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave.