If you’re craving a cozy brunch that feels indulgent but is a bit lighter on eggs, the Less Egg Brioche French Toast Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. This dish brings together the pillowy softness of brioche bread with a perfectly spiced custard that’s custardy and comforting without overwhelming yolkiness. It’s a crowd-pleaser that balances richness with just the right sweetness and texture, making it ideal for family breakfasts, holiday mornings, or anytime you want to impress with minimal fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a favorite go-to when you want a delicious breakfast casserole that’s both satisfying and elegantly simple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Coming together with such a simple and thoughtful set of ingredients, this recipe proves that amazing flavor doesn’t have to be complicated. Each item plays a unique role, whether it is the softness of brioche, the warmth of cinnamon, or the rich splash of vanilla, making every bite irresistibly delicious and perfectly textured.
- 1 (14–16 oz) loaf soft brioche: This fluffy, buttery bread soaks up the custard beautifully for the ultimate texture.
- 3 large eggs: Less than usual for custards, helping keep the dish lighter while still creamy.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and balances the custard’s richness; swap part with cream for indulgence.
- ⅓ cup brown sugar: Provides a deep caramel flavor that white sugar sometimes can’t match.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the custard without changing the taste.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings a warm, spicy note; nutmeg or cardamom are great additions if you want to mix it up.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and adds a fragrant, comforting aroma.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and deepens flavors.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping): Creates a delicate, slightly crunchy topping when baked.
- Powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries (optional for serving): Classic finishing touches that elevate each serving beautifully.
How to Make Less Egg Brioche French Toast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so the casserole doesn’t stick and can brown evenly. This prep step ensures your casserole will bake perfectly without any fuss later.
Step 2: Make the Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This custard forms the heart of the casserole, providing rich flavor and creamy texture, with just enough spice to keep things interesting without overpowering the brioche.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Arrange the brioche slices evenly in your prepared pan. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, pressing down gently so all pieces soak up the custard well. Let the casserole rest for 10 to 15 minutes while the oven finishes heating to allow perfect absorption for that luscious custard-soaked texture.
Step 4: Add a Sweet Crunch
Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the top of the soaked bread layer. This step is the secret to a subtle, caramelized crust that adds delightful texture and a little sparkle to the casserole’s golden surface once baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your casserole for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for a puffed, golden-brown dish that is set in the center but still soft and inviting. The oven transforms the custard-soaked brioche into a warm, dreamy breakfast treat that’s truly irresistible.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes once out of the oven. This rest time helps the custard set fully and makes serving easier. Dust the top with powdered sugar, drizzle generously with maple syrup, and add fresh berries if you like. This finishing touch makes every bite feel festive and lovely.
How to Serve Less Egg Brioche French Toast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Classic powdered sugar dusted lightly over the top creates a snow-kissed look that is as pleasing to the eye as to the palate. Add a drizzle of sweet maple syrup to introduce rich maple notes, and scatter fresh berries for a pop of color, tartness, and freshness that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Complement this casserole with simple sides like crisp bacon or sausage for savory balance, creamy yogurt with honey, or even a fresh fruit salad for brightness. Each side adds texture and taste contrast that turn your brunch into a celebration of flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in cute ramekins for a charming presentation, or top slices with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added crunch. You can also layer the casserole with fresh fruit inside before baking for hidden bursts of flavor and color with every forkful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover Less Egg Brioche French Toast Casserole Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can easily be reheated for a quick breakfast treat on busy mornings.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! Portion it into airtight containers or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap for up to one month. When you want a hassle-free brunch, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or warm the whole casserole in a 325°F oven, covered, until heated through. A quick sprinkle of granulated sugar and a brief broil will restore that lovely crust if desired.
FAQs
Can I use bread other than brioche for this recipe?
Absolutely! While brioche offers richness and softness, you can substitute challah, French bread, or even a thick sandwich bread. Keep in mind that different breads will affect texture and flavor slightly.
Why does this recipe use fewer eggs than typical French toast casseroles?
Using fewer eggs keeps the custard lighter, preventing it from becoming too dense or eggy while still maintaining a creamy texture. It’s perfect if you want a custard that feels rich but not overwhelming.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it covered. This allows the bread even more time to soak up the custard, making it extra flavorful. Just bake it straight from the fridge in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What are good alternatives to brown sugar in the recipe?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white granulated sugar or coconut sugar as substitutes. Brown sugar adds a mild molasses flavor, so substituting may slightly change the taste but won’t ruin the dish.
How do I know when the casserole is perfectly baked?
The casserole should be puffed and golden on top, and slightly spring back when lightly touched. The center should be set and not jiggly, but still soft and custardy. Don’t worry if it’s a little soft inside; it will firm up as it cools.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Less Egg Brioche French Toast Casserole Recipe enough for anyone who loves a breakfast that’s both comforting and elegant without too much effort. It’s a joy to make and even more delightful to eat, offering cozy flavors, a tender custard, and the beautiful texture of brioche. So, gather those simple ingredients, invite your loved ones, and enjoy a slice of pure morning happiness!
Print
Less Egg Brioche French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Less Egg Brioche French Toast Casserole is a comforting and delicious breakfast dish that combines soft brioche bread soaked in a rich custard made with fewer eggs for a lighter texture. Baked to golden perfection with a sweet, crunchy sugar topping, it’s perfect for weekend brunch or holiday mornings. Finished with optional powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh berries for a delightful presentation.
Ingredients
For the casserole
- 1 (14–16 oz) loaf soft brioche
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk (swap ½ cup milk for cream for richer custard)
- â…“ cup brown sugar (white sugar can be substituted)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional: pinch of nutmeg or cardamom)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the topping
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for a light crust)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for serving)
- Maple syrup (optional, for serving)
- Fresh berries (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Gather all your ingredients and have them ready for assembly.
- Make custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is fully smooth and well combined.
- Assemble: Arrange the sliced brioche bread in an even layer within the prepared baking dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently to help the bread soak up the custard. Allow the casserole to sit for 10–15 minutes to maximize absorption while the oven preheats.
- Sprinkle with sugar: Evenly sprinkle the granulated sugar on top of the soaked bread mixture to create a lightly sweet and slightly crunchy crust during baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and just set in the center (a toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean).
- Finish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes to set further. Dust the top with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and garnish with fresh berries if desired before serving.
Notes
- For a richer custard, substitute ½ cup milk with cream.
- You can use white sugar instead of brown sugar if needed.
- Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom intensifies the spice flavor alongside cinnamon.
- Letting the casserole soak before baking ensures the bread absorbs the custard fully.
- Optional toppings like powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh berries add sweetness and freshness.
