Breakfast & Brunch

Best Pioneer Woman French Toast Casserole

Chef Olivia

December 24, 2025
4 min read

Best Pioneer Woman French Toast Casserole

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introduction

This Best Pioneer Woman French Toast Casserole is warm, soft, and sweet. It soaks overnight and bakes in the morning. It makes a big dish for family or guests. If you like rich breakfast breads, you may also enjoy a similar twist like crème brûlée French toast for a special treat.

why make this recipe

You make this recipe because it is easy and feeds many. You can mix it the night before and bake it in the morning. The cream cheese adds a creamy bite. It tastes like a bakery but uses simple steps and common ingredients.

how to make Best Pioneer Woman French Toast Casserole

Grease a baking dish and layer the sliced brioche bread. Whisk eggs, milk, cinnamon, maple syrup, and vanilla in a bowl. Pour the mix over the bread and press so the bread soaks up the liquid. Add cream cheese chunks on top for pockets of cream. Cover and chill the dish overnight so the flavors join. Next morning, preheat the oven and bake until the top turns golden and the center sets. Serve hot with syrup or fruit.

Ingredients :

1 loaf of sliced brioche bread
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
8 oz cream cheese, cut into chunks
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional: Fresh fruits, nuts, or whipped cream for garnish

Directions :

Grease a baking dish and arrange the sliced brioche bread in layers.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
Pour the egg mixture over the bread slices, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Add chunks of cream cheese on top of the casserole for extra creaminess.
Cover the dish and refrigerate it overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
Preheat your oven the next morning and bake the casserole until golden brown and set.
Serve the French toast casserole hot, topped with your favorite fruits, nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Best Pioneer Woman French Toast Casserole

how to serve Best Pioneer Woman French Toast Casserole

Cut the casserole into squares. Serve warm on plates. Add fresh berries, sliced bananas, or chopped nuts. Drizzle more maple syrup or put whipped cream on top. You can also dust with powdered sugar for a pretty look.

how to store Best Pioneer Woman French Toast Casserole

Cool the casserole to room temperature. Cover with foil or put in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, or heat single pieces in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.

tips to make Best Pioneer Woman French Toast Casserole

Use day-old brioche if you can; it soaks better.
Press the bread down after pouring the egg mix so it absorbs well.
Cut the cream cheese into small chunks so it melts in patches.
Let it chill overnight for the best texture.
For a different meal plan, look at a savory bake like French onion chicken orzo casserole for lunch or dinner ideas.

variation (if any)

Add a streusel topping: mix butter, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon and sprinkle on top before baking.
Use challah or sourdough instead of brioche.
Add a splash of orange juice or zest to the egg mix for a citrus note.
Mix in chocolate chips or berries for a fruit or chocolate version.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this with other bread?
A: Yes. Use challah, sourdough, or thick white bread. Brioche is best for richness.

Q: Do I have to refrigerate it overnight?
A: You can bake right away, but chilling overnight makes it creamier and more set.

Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: Yes. Cool completely, wrap well, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Q: How long do I bake it?
A: Bake until the top is golden and the center does not jiggle much. About 45–55 minutes at 350°F (175°C), but ovens vary.

Q: Can I skip the cream cheese?
A: Yes. It will still be good without cream cheese, but it loses some creaminess.