Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sourdough bread adds a delicious tangy flavor and sturdy texture that soaks up the custard beautifully without becoming mushy. This casserole can be prepared the night before, making busy mornings stress-free. It’s simple to customize with fruit, nuts, or your favorite toppings and fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and vanilla as it bakes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Sourdough bread, cut into cubes
Eggs
Whole milk
Heavy cream
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Salt
Unsalted butter, melted

Optional Streusel Topping

All-purpose flour
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Cold unsalted butter, cubed
Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For Serving

Maple syrup
Powdered sugar
Fresh berries
Whipped cream

Directions

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
Spread the cubed sourdough bread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and melted butter until well combined.
Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, gently pressing the bread down so it absorbs the mixture.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
If using the streusel topping, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter until crumbly, then stir in the chopped nuts if desired.
Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the casserole.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8–10
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 4 hours or overnight
Cook time: 45–50 minutes
Rest time: 10 minutes
Total time: About 5 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)

Variations

Add fresh blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries before baking.
Layer thinly sliced apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an apple pie-inspired version.
Stir mini chocolate chips into the bread mixture for a sweeter casserole.
Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
Use orange zest in the custard for a bright citrus flavor.
Sprinkle shredded coconut over the streusel topping.
Drizzle caramel sauce over each serving for extra indulgence.
Replace the vanilla extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Sourdough French Toast Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the casserole in a 325°F (163°C) oven until heated through. Freeze baked portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Why is sourdough bread ideal for French toast casserole?

Sourdough has a firm texture that absorbs the custard without falling apart, creating a perfect balance of crisp edges and a soft interior.

Can I make this casserole the night before?

Yes. In fact, overnight chilling gives the bread plenty of time to absorb the custard, resulting in the best flavor and texture.

Can I use fresh sourdough bread?

Yes, but day-old sourdough works best because it’s slightly drier and absorbs the custard more effectively.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes. Freeze the fully baked casserole for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

What can I serve with this casserole?

Fresh fruit, crispy bacon, breakfast sausage, scrambled eggs, yogurt, or hash browns all make excellent accompaniments.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Use your favorite dairy-free milk, dairy-free cream alternative, and plant-based butter.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The center should be set, and a knife inserted into the middle should come out mostly clean.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

Absolutely. Reduce the amount of sugar in the custard or omit the streusel topping for a less sweet casserole.

What toppings taste best?

Maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, fresh berries, chopped nuts, or warm fruit compote are all delicious choices.

Can I use another type of bread?

Yes. Brioche, challah, French bread, or Italian bread also work well, although sourdough provides a distinctive flavor and sturdy texture.

Conclusion

Sourdough French Toast Casserole is a delicious make-ahead breakfast that’s perfect for holidays, brunches, and family gatherings. The hearty sourdough bread, creamy cinnamon custard, and optional buttery streusel topping come together to create a comforting dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. Serve it with maple syrup and your favorite toppings for a breakfast that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Sourdough French Toast Casserole

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Sourdough French Toast Casserole is a comforting make-ahead breakfast made with hearty sourdough bread soaked in a sweet cinnamon-vanilla custard and baked until golden brown. With a crisp buttery top and soft custardy center, it’s perfect for holiday mornings, brunches, or family breakfasts.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 8-10 servings
Category: Breakfast
Method: Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter and spread the cubed sourdough bread evenly inside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and melted butter until well combined.
Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, gently pressing the bread so it absorbs the liquid.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
If using the streusel topping, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter until crumbly, then stir in the chopped nuts if desired.
Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the casserole.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream.

Notes

Day-old sourdough bread absorbs the custard best and provides the ideal texture.
Prepare the casserole the night before for an easy breakfast.
Add fresh berries, apples, chocolate chips, or citrus zest for delicious variations.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the oven for the best texture and serve with warm maple syrup.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 390 kcal
Sugar: 17 g
Sodium: 410 mg
Fat: 16 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 49 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 12 g
Cholesterol: 190 mg