Print

Crispy Churro French Toast Casserole Easy Homemade Recipe with Cinnamon Sugar Crust

Crispy Churro French Toast Casserole - featured image

A cozy and indulgent breakfast casserole combining the crunchy cinnamon sugar crust of churros with the tender custardy texture of French toast, perfect for brunch or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups brioche bread or challah, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk (480 ml)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 g)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Cinnamon sugar topping:
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar (65 g)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Cut about 8 cups of brioche bread into 1-inch cubes. Toss the cubes gently in 4 tablespoons of melted butter until coated. (10 minutes)
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth and slightly frothy. (5 minutes)
  3. Pour the custard over the buttered bread cubes. Gently fold with a spatula to ensure all pieces soak evenly without breaking apart. Let it sit for about 15 minutes at room temperature. (15 minutes)
  4. Mix together 1/3 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl for the topping. (2 minutes)
  5. Transfer the soaked bread and custard mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture liberally over the top. (5 minutes)
  6. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 minutes. (30 minutes)
  7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and crisp. (15-20 minutes)
  8. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. (5-10 minutes)

Notes

Butter the bread cubes before soaking to achieve a golden, crispy crust without drying out the custard. Cover the casserole with foil during the first half of baking to prevent burning and ensure the custard sets properly. Let the casserole rest after baking to firm up before slicing. For a crunchier crust, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end but watch closely to avoid burning. Assemble the night before and refrigerate for convenience, adding 10-15 minutes to baking time if chilled.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast casserole, churro French toast, cinnamon sugar crust, brunch recipe, easy breakfast casserole, crispy French toast bake