Name: Small French Toast Casserole (Easy Recipe from 2 to a Crowd) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 8 h 50 min
Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients: 8 oz French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 large eggs; 1 ½ cups milk; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; 2 teaspoons sugar; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon butter (for brushing); 2 tablespoons sugar (for topping); 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)

If you’re craving a breakfast that feels like a warm hug and serves effortlessly from just a couple of people to a full table, the Small French Toast Casserole (Easy Recipe from 2 to a Crowd) Recipe is the dish for you. This delightful casserole transforms simple French bread into a luscious, custardy, cinnamon-spiced masterpiece that’s perfect for lazy weekend mornings or special occasions. The long soak melds flavors beautifully, and the final bake creates a golden, slightly crisp top with a wonderfully tender inside. Whether you whip it up the night before or rustle it together on a busy morning, it’s an unbeatable crowd-pleaser that always feels like a treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A rectangular white baking dish filled with many pieces of white bread cut into medium-sized cubes. The bread cubes show a soft, airy white interior with golden brown edges. The pieces are unevenly scattered inside the dish, filling it nearly to the top. The dish is placed on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients for this Small French Toast Casserole (Easy Recipe from 2 to a Crowd) Recipe is a breeze because each component plays a key role in crafting that perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and warmly spiced flavors. Every ingredient is simple, yet essential to give this dish its inviting texture and classic breakfast flavor.

8 oz French bread (1-inch cubes): Use crusty bread for the best texture that soaks up the custard without falling apart.
4 large eggs: They create the rich custard base that holds the casserole together.
1 ½ cups milk: Adds creaminess and moisture to soften the bread perfectly.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness to bring out the flavors fully.
½ teaspoon cinnamon: Provides the warm, comforting spice signature to French toast.
2 teaspoons sugar: Sweetens the custard gently without overpowering it.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Gives the dish a subtle, floral sweetness.
1 tablespoon butter: Used to coat the casserole’s surface for a golden, rich finish.
2 tablespoons sugar: Combined with cinnamon, it creates a crunchy, fragrant topping.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Mixed with sugar for the perfect topping to complete this dish.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Small French Toast Casserole (Easy Recipe from 2 to a Crowd) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by buttering an 8×8 or 6×9-inch baking dish. This little step ensures your casserole won’t stick and helps the edges turn just beautifully crisp in the oven.

Step 2: Cube the Bread

Cut about 8 ounces of French bread into 1-inch cubes. Using a crusty bread is key here because it absorbs the custard without falling apart, giving you a delightful texture.

Step 3: Whisk the Custard Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 ½ cups of milk, 2 teaspoons sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Don’t overmix – just combine until smooth and you’ll have a nicely balanced custard ready to soak into the bread.

Step 4: Assemble and Refrigerate

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes in your buttered dish. Cover the pan tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or if you’re short on time, proceed directly to baking – though the overnight soak intensifies the flavors and texture.

Step 5: Preheat and Rest

When ready to bake, remove the dish from the fridge and uncover it. Let it rest at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes – this helps it cook evenly. Preheat your oven to 350°F for the perfect bake.

Step 6: Butter and Sugar Topping

Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and brush it gently over the top of the soaked bread. Then sprinkle a mix of 2 tablespoons sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon evenly across the surface. This topping caramelizes in the oven, adding a lovely crunch and aroma to your casserole.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake for about 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. That golden crust paired with the soft center is exactly what you want for every bite.

Step 8: Cool Slightly and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving so it sets up nicely and you don’t burn yourself diving in. This resting time also helps the flavors to meld and intensify.

How to Serve Small French Toast Casserole (Easy Recipe from 2 to a Crowd) Recipe

A close-up view of a light beige baking dish filled with roughly chopped pieces of soft white bread, soaking in a clear liquid. On top, a silver spoon held by a man's hand is sprinkling a fine light brown powder over the bread pieces. The setting shows a focus on the bread's texture with soft crumbs and a lightly wet surface from the liquid. The background has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of maple syrup make perfect garnishes. They add a pop of color and extra bursts of sweetness that complement the warm spices beautifully.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with crispy bacon, sausages, or fresh fruit salad to round out your morning meal with contrasting textures and flavors. A dollop of whipped cream or yogurt can also be a lovely touch for those who want something creamy alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices in rustic bowls for a cozy feel or plate individually with a sprig of mint and a swirl of syrup for a more elegant brunch spread. You can even layer it with dollops of cream cheese or mascarpone to elevate the experience even further.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover small French toast casserole tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It actually tastes fantastic as the flavors deepen overnight.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Cover your casserole well with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes to bring back that crispy top and warm interior. Avoid microwaving if possible for the best texture retention.

FAQs

Can I use bread other than French bread?

Yes! While French bread is ideal for its texture and crust, you can substitute with brioche, challah, or any slightly dense bread. Just avoid super soft bread that might get too mushy.

Do I have to soak the casserole overnight?

No, soaking it overnight elevates the flavor and texture, but if you’re pressed for time, you can bake it right after assembling. Just know the custard won’t be as deeply infused.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the milk for your favorite plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use a vegan butter to keep it dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.

How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?

The top should be golden brown and the internal temperature ought to reach 165°F. You can also test by inserting a knife in the middle; it should come out clean.

Can I add mix-ins like fruit or nuts?

Definitely! Fresh berries, chopped nuts, or even chocolate chips can be folded into the bread cubes before soaking for an extra special twist to this already wonderful casserole.

Final Thoughts

This Small French Toast Casserole (Easy Recipe from 2 to a Crowd) Recipe is one of those magical dishes that make mornings feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s adaptable, approachable, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that warms hearts and fills bellies. Give it a try — I promise it’ll become a beloved staple in your breakfast rotation!