Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This French toast casserole takes everything you love about traditional French toast and makes it even easier and more delicious. It’s all prepared in a single dish and baked to perfection, with no flipping or standing over the stove. The chocolate chips add a fun and decadent twist that kids and adults alike will love. Plus, it can be assembled ahead of time and baked fresh in the morning.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Brioche or challah bread, cubed
- Eggs
- Whole milk or half-and-half
- Heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- Granulated sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon
- Salt
- Chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
- Butter (for greasing the baking dish)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for topping)
- Maple syrup (optional, for serving)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and place evenly into the baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream (if using), sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently so the bread absorbs the liquid.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the top, gently folding some into the bread mixture if desired.
- Let sit for 15–20 minutes, or cover and refrigerate overnight if preparing ahead.
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set in the center.
- Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 8 to 10 people. Prep time is about 15 minutes, with a bake time of approximately 45 minutes. If assembling ahead, allow extra time for soaking overnight.
Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Fruity Version: Mix in sliced bananas or berries along with the chocolate chips.
- Stuffed Casserole: Layer in cream cheese chunks for a cheesecake-inspired variation.
- Spiced: Add nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a warm, seasonal flavor.
- Mini Casseroles: Divide into ramekins for individual servings.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes per slice or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
What type of bread is best for this casserole?
Brioche, challah, or French bread work best due to their soft texture and ability to soak up the custard.
Can I make this casserole the night before?
Yes, assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake in the morning as directed.
Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk can be substituted for dairy milk.
Do I have to use chocolate chips?
No, you can skip them or replace them with raisins, nuts, or another add-in of your choice.
Can I use stale bread?
Yes, slightly stale bread actually works better since it absorbs the custard more effectively.
How do I know when it’s fully baked?
The top should be golden brown, and the center should feel set when pressed lightly.
Can I make this casserole smaller?
Yes, halve the recipe and bake in an 8×8-inch dish. Adjust baking time to about 30–35 minutes.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Serve with bacon, sausage, fruit salad, or yogurt for a complete brunch spread.
Can I add syrup before baking?
It’s best to add syrup after baking, as baking with syrup can cause the casserole to be overly sweet or soggy.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze leftovers or the whole baked casserole (once cooled) in portions for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
Chocolate chip French toast casserole is a decadent and easy breakfast option that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or making any morning feel special. With rich custard-soaked bread, melted chocolate, and a crisp golden top, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite for brunches, holidays, or weekend treats.
PrintChocolate Chip French Toast Casserole
Chocolate chip French toast casserole is a sweet and indulgent breakfast bake made with soft bread cubes soaked in a rich custard and dotted with melty chocolate chips. It’s perfect for brunches, holidays, or cozy weekend mornings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 to 10 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10 cups)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing baking dish)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for topping)
- Maple syrup (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Add cubed bread to the baking dish in an even layer.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream (if using), sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently so the bread absorbs the liquid.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips over the top, folding some into the mixture if desired.
- Let sit for 15–20 minutes or cover and refrigerate overnight for a make-ahead option.
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until golden brown and custard is set.
- Cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup if desired.
Notes
- Stale bread works best for better custard absorption.
- Customize with nuts, fruit, or spices for different variations.
- Let casserole rest after baking for clean slices.
- Can be made ahead and baked fresh in the morning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/10 of casserole
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
