Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole

Looking for a delicious breakfast or brunch idea to impress your family and friends? This Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. With its creamy, custardy interior, hints of cinnamon, and indulgent bites of cream cheese, it’s a dish that screams cozy mornings.

Perfect for breakfast lovers, brunch enthusiasts, or home cooks who want a crowd-pleasing recipe, this casserole is easy to prepare and makes your mornings extra special.

Whether you're gathering a group for brunch or simply treating yourself to an upgraded breakfast, this recipe is bound to hit the spot. Here’s everything you need to know to make it like a pro.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: The recipe is ideal for preparing in advance, especially for busy mornings.
Crowd Pleaser: A casserole-style dish ensures there’s plenty to go around.
Perfect Balance of Flavors: Creamy custard pairs perfectly with the tangy richness of cream cheese and the warm, sweet spices of cinnamon and sugar.

Get your ingredients ready and your oven preheated. It’s time to bake something heavenly.

Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful breakfast casserole:

For the Casserole:

1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (challah or brioche works wonderfully too)
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 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
A pinch of salt

For the Topping:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
4 tbsp butter (cold and cut into small pieces)
Optional garnish: powdered sugar and maple syrup

Pro Tip:

Want to make this extra special? Add a handful of fresh berries or chopped nuts into the mix.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole

This step-by-step guide will take the guesswork out of creating this delectable dish.

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Cut the French bread into 1-inch cubes and set them aside.
Cube the cream cheese into bite-sized pieces to make sure every bite has a creamy surprise.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Spread half of the cubed bread evenly into the dish. Sprinkle the cream cheese cubes on top, then cover with the remaining bread.

Step 3: Make the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure that all pieces are well-coated.
Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or, ideally, overnight. This allows the bread to soak up all the custardy goodness.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

Combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl. Using a fork or your hands, mix in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set it aside.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Before placing the casserole in the oven, evenly sprinkle the prepared topping over the bread.
Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is fully set. If the top browns too quickly, loosely place a sheet of foil over it during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5–10 minutes.
Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup. Serve warm and enjoy your masterpiece!

Tips for the Best French Toast Casserole

Use Stale Bread

Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better, preventing the casserole from becoming mushy.

Chill Overnight

Allowing the casserole to rest overnight ensures the flavors meld beautifully, and the bread soaks up all the liquid.

Customize It

Add your favorite flavors like nutmeg, orange zest, or a splash of rum for extra character.

Prepare in Advance

Assemble everything the night before, so all you have to do is pop it in the oven in the morning.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a lazy weekend brunch, a celebration, or simply a morning treat, Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole fits the bill. Its balance of rich flavors and creamy textures makes it a standout dish. Plus, it’s easy to adapt for different tastes and dietary needs—for instance, swap regular milk for almond milk or opt for a gluten-free bread alternative.

Serve your casserole alongside fresh fruit, coffee, or a mimosa to create a delightful breakfast feast for your loved ones.

Time To Bake Your Morning Delight!

Next time you’re craving a breakfast upgrade, look no further than this recipe for Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole. It’s simple, delicious, and sure to become a family favorite. This dish proves that indulgence doesn’t have to be complicated.

Want more brunch inspiration like this? Be sure to check out our blog for more recipes and tips. Don’t forget to tag us in your creations on Instagram #BakedBrunchMagic!