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Creamy Stuffed French Toast Casserole Recipe with Rich Cream Cheese Filling

Creamy Stuffed French Toast Casserole - featured image

A cozy and indulgent breakfast casserole featuring thick slices of brioche stuffed with a rich cream cheese filling and soaked in a vanilla-cinnamon custard, perfect for easy weekend brunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf brioche or challah, sliced thick (about 1-inch slices)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk (or 1 cup milk + 1 cup heavy cream for extra richness)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
  • Maple syrup or fresh berries for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cream cheese filling: In a medium bowl, beat 8 oz softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon until smooth and creamy (about 3-4 minutes). Set aside.
  2. Slice the bread into thick 1-inch slices, about 12 slices for a 9×13-inch pan. Stale bread works best.
  3. Assemble the casserole: Lay half the bread slices in the baking dish. Spread a generous tablespoon of cream cheese mixture on each slice, then top with remaining bread slices to form sandwiches. Press gently to compact.
  4. Make the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together 6 eggs, 2 cups milk, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until combined.
  5. Pour the custard evenly over the assembled casserole. Press down lightly on the bread to help soak up the custard. Let sit for 10-15 minutes (or refrigerate covered overnight for better soaking).
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover casserole loosely with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until top is golden and set.
  7. Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup or fresh berries.

Notes

[‘Use day-old bread to prevent sogginess and maintain structure.’, ‘Room temperature eggs and milk help custard mix evenly and soak well.’, ‘Let the casserole soak for at least 10 minutes before baking; overnight soaking improves flavor and texture.’, ‘Tent with foil during baking if the top browns too quickly to avoid burning.’, ‘For dairy-free, use vegan cream cheese and plant-based milk.’, ‘For gluten-free, use sturdy gluten-free bread and certified gluten-free ingredients.’, ‘Add fresh or frozen berries, chocolate chips, or spices like nutmeg for variations.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast casserole, cream cheese filling, brunch recipe, easy breakfast, baked French toast, brioche casserole