Description
When you’re craving something cozy, sweet, and soul-soothing for breakfast or brunch, there’s nothing quite like a Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole. This rich and satisfying dish is made with soft cubes of bread soaked in a sweet vanilla custard, layered with creamy pockets of cream cheese, and baked to golden perfection.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, prepping breakfast for a crowd, or simply treating yourself to a slow weekend morning, this French toast casserole delivers indulgent flavor with minimal effort. Make it the night before or bake it fresh—either way, it’s the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
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Ingredients
For the Casserole:
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1 loaf of day-old French bread or brioche, cut into cubes
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8 oz cream cheese, cubed
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6 large eggs
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1 ¾ cups milk
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½ cup heavy cream
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½ cup granulated sugar
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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Pinch of salt
For the Topping (Optional):
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Powdered sugar, for dusting
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Maple syrup, for serving
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Fresh berries or chopped nuts
Instructions
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add half of the bread cubes to the dish. Scatter the cubed cream cheese evenly over the bread, then top with the remaining bread cubes.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and cream cheese, pressing down gently with a spatula to help the bread soak it up. Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—or overnight for best results.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole, covered, for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and the center is set.
Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup. Serve warm with your favorite toppings!
Notes
Use Day-Old Bread – Slightly stale bread holds up better and soaks in the custard without getting soggy.
Chill Overnight – Letting it sit overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
Cream Cheese Tip – Soften the cream cheese slightly before cubing for easier layering.
Customize It – Add blueberries, apple slices, or a cinnamon streusel on top for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American