Best Pioneer Woman–Style French Toast Casserole
This Pioneer Woman–inspired French Toast Casserole is rich, cozy, and perfect for special mornings. Soft brioche bread is soaked in a cinnamon-maple custard, dotted with creamy pockets of cream cheese, and baked until golden and fluffy. It’s ideal for holiday breakfasts, weekend brunches, or anytime you want an impressive yet comforting dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
-
1 loaf brioche bread, sliced
-
6 large eggs
-
2 cups milk
-
8 oz cream cheese, cut into small chunks
-
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
-
½ cup maple syrup
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
Fresh fruit, chopped nuts, powdered sugar, whipped cream, or extra maple syrup
Instructions
-
Prepare the baking dish
Grease a baking dish generously. Arrange the sliced brioche bread in even layers. -
Make the custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until fully combined. -
Assemble the casserole
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, making sure all slices are well coated. Gently press the bread down to help it absorb the custard. -
Add cream cheese
Scatter the cream cheese chunks evenly over the top of the casserole. -
Chill overnight
Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6–8 hours) to allow the bread to fully soak. -
Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. -
Serve
Serve warm with fresh fruit, nuts, whipped cream, or an extra drizzle of maple syrup.
Notes
-
Use day-old brioche for better absorption and texture
-
Cut cream cheese into small cubes so it melts evenly
-
Let it rest 5–10 minutes after baking for cleaner slices
-
Add crunch with pecans or walnuts on top before baking
-
Make it festive with berries or a dusting of powdered sugar