It’s hard to resist a warm pan of French Toast Casserole.
Soft, custardy bread layered with cinnamon and topped with sweet icing makes it the perfect weekend brunch or holiday breakfast.
With just a few ingredients, this dish comes together easily but tastes like a bakery treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s quick to assemble using refrigerated cinnamon rolls.
Perfect for breakfast gatherings, holidays, or cozy weekends.
The texture is soft inside with a golden, slightly crisp top.
You can prepare it ahead of time for stress-free mornings.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Cinnamon rolls – Use refrigerated rolls or homemade; they make the base sweet and flavorful.
Eggs – Create the custard that binds everything together.
Milk and heavy cream – Add richness and a creamy texture.
Brown sugar – Sweetens the custard with a caramel-like note.
Vanilla and cinnamon – Enhance flavor and add warmth.
Icing – Drizzled on top for a sweet finish.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Cut cinnamon rolls into small pieces so they soak up more custard.
Whisk the custard mixture until smooth for even baking.
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving; it helps set.
For extra flavor, add chopped nuts or raisins.
How to Make French Toast Casserole
Step 1 – Prepare the dish
Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch pan.
Step 2 – Add cinnamon rolls
Cut rolls into quarters and spread evenly in the pan.
Step 3 – Mix the custard
Whisk eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
Step 4 – Combine
Pour custard mixture over the rolls and gently toss to coat.
Step 5 – Bake
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until golden and set in the center.
Step 6 – Finish and serve
Drizzle with icing while warm. Serve with syrup, fruit, or extra icing.
What to Serve Them With
Fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas.
Maple syrup or honey for added sweetness.
A side of bacon or sausage for balance.
Coffee, tea, or a brunch cocktail.
Variations / Substitutions
Use brioche or challah bread instead of cinnamon rolls.
Add cream cheese cubes for richness.
Sprinkle pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Make it festive with dried cranberries or apples.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.
Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change.
FAQs
Can I make this the night before?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning.
Do I have to use cinnamon rolls?
No, you can substitute cubed brioche, challah, or French bread.
How do I know when it’s done?
The center should be set and a knife should come out mostly clean.
Can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the brown sugar and drizzle less icing.
What toppings work well?
Powdered sugar, fresh fruit, maple syrup, or whipped cream.
Can I use low-fat milk?
Yes, but whole milk and cream give a richer texture.
Why is my casserole soggy?
It may be underbaked—extend baking time by 5 minutes.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, bake in two pans for a crowd.
Is this freezer-friendly?
It’s best fresh, but you can freeze baked portions and reheat.
Can I add chocolate?
Absolutely—sprinkle chocolate chips before baking.
Final Thoughts
French Toast Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing breakfast that feels indulgent but is incredibly simple to make.
With its cinnamon swirls, soft custard base, and sweet icing drizzle, it’s bound to become a family favorite.
