Breakfast & Brunch

Christmas Morning French Toast Bake

Name: Christmas Morning French Toast Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 cups brioche bread, cubed; 6 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk (or dairy-free alternative); 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark); 1/2 cup real maple syrup (for drizzling)

Chef Olivia

December 24, 2025
4 min read

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why make this recipe

This bake makes a warm, sweet meal that feeds a family on a busy morning. It cooks ahead, so you can sleep later and still serve a hot breakfast. The bread soaks up a simple custard and becomes soft inside and a little crisp on top. For a richer, caramel-like twist you might like the crème brûlée style version: crème brûlée French toast.

introduction

This Christmas Morning French Toast Bake is simple and cozy. You mix eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Then you pour the mix over cubed brioche. Bake until golden. It smells like the holidays and tastes like a warm hug.

how to make Christmas Morning French Toast Bake

Follow the steps below to make the bake. You can make it the night before and bake in the morning.

Ingredients :

10 cups brioche bread, cubed
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
1/2 cup real maple syrup (for drizzling)

Directions :

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cut brioche bread into 1-inch cubes.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla until smooth.
Gently fold in the cubed brioche until all pieces are coated in the custard mixture.
Sprinkle optional toppings such as chopped nuts or additional cinnamon.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Christmas Morning French Toast Bake

how to serve Christmas Morning French Toast Bake

Let the bake rest 5 minutes after you take it from the oven. Drizzle the maple syrup over the top. Cut into squares and serve warm. Add fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar if you like.

how to store Christmas Morning French Toast Bake

Cool completely before storing. Cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat single portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm a full dish in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

tips to make Christmas Morning French Toast Bake

Use day-old brioche for the best texture; it soaks the custard well.
Whisk the eggs and milk until smooth so the bake cooks evenly.
If you want more spice, add 1/4 tsp nutmeg or a pinch of cloves.
For a crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
Try a seasonal twist like adding pumpkin puree and spices: pumpkin French toast for a fall-flavored version.

variation (if any)

Fruit layer: Add a layer of sliced apples or pears under the brioche before pouring the custard.
Chocolate: Drop chocolate chips between bread cubes for a sweet surprise.
Savory: Skip the brown sugar and cinnamon, add herbs and cheese for a savory breakfast bake.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this the night before?
A: Yes. Assemble, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning, adding a few extra minutes if cold.

Q: Can I use another bread?
A: Yes. Challah, French bread, or thick sandwich bread work. Brioche gives the richest result.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes. Freeze cooled pieces in a single layer on a tray, then store in a freezer bag up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven until warm.

Q: Is there a dairy-free option?
A: Use a plant milk like almond or oat milk. Use a dairy-free brioche if you need fully dairy-free.

Q: How do I know when it is done?
A: The top should be golden and the center should feel set, not jiggly. A toothpick in the center should come out mostly clean.