French toast casserole is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast dish, combining all the cozy flavors of French toast with the ease of a baked casserole.

This vegan version delivers the same custardy texture and indulgent crumble topping—without eggs or dairy—making it perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.

Why Make This Recipe

A French toast casserole is ideal for gatherings and holiday brunches because it can be prepared ahead of time and baked when ready. This plant‑based version captures the comforting flavors of custard‑soaked bread and a buttery crumble topping, while remaining easy to customize with your favorite vegan toppings.

How To Make French Toast Casserole

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons vegan butter, at room temperature, plus more for greasing the dish
• 1 (1‑pound) loaf unsliced sourdough, Italian, or French bread (not baguette, and preferably day‑old)
• 3 cups unsweetened plant‑based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
• 1/2 cup canned coconut milk or vegan heavy cream
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar, divided
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, divided
• 2 ounces chopped nuts (about 1/2 cup), such as pecans or walnuts
• 1/4 cup all‑purpose flour
• Maple syrup or powdered sugar, for serving
• Fresh berries, for serving (optional)

Directions:

1. Lightly grease a 9×13‑inch (3‑quart) baking dish with vegan butter.
2. Tear the bread into 1‑ to 2‑inch chunks and arrange evenly in the baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the plant‑based milk, coconut milk, cornstarch, 1/2 cup brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture evenly over the bread and gently press the bread down to absorb the custard. Cover and refrigerate overnight or up to 24 hours. If baking the same day, let sit at room temperature for 1 hour.
5. In another bowl, mix the chopped nuts, flour, remaining 1/4 cup brown sugar, remaining 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt.
6. Add the room‑temperature vegan butter and mix until clumpy. Refrigerate until ready to bake.
7. Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove casserole from the refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
8. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the casserole.
9. Bake for 45–50 minutes, until golden, slightly crisp on top, and set in the center. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.
10. Serve with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries if desired.

Prep Time And Nutrition Facts

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 50 minutes to bake, for a total time of approximately 65 minutes. It serves 8 people, with each serving containing roughly 400–430 calories, 8–10g of plant‑based protein, and 18–20g of fat, depending on ingredients used.

How To Serve French Toast Casserole

Serve warm, drizzled with maple syrup or dusted with powdered sugar. Fresh berries, dairy‑free whipped topping, or coconut yogurt make excellent additions.

How To Store French Toast Casserole

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Tips To Make French Toast Casserole

• Add a splash of orange or almond extract for extra depth of flavor.
• Chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or raisins make great mix‑ins.
• For a sweeter casserole, slightly increase the brown sugar in the custard.

Health And Benefits Of This Recipe

This vegan French toast casserole provides comforting energy from whole grains and healthy fats from nuts. Plant‑based milk contributes calcium (when fortified), while nuts offer protein and heart‑healthy fats. It’s an indulgent‑feeling breakfast made with wholesome, dairy‑free ingredients.

Variation

Customize this casserole by using different breads, adding fruits like apples or bananas, or making it nut‑free by omitting the nuts or substituting seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole the night before?
Yes, it’s ideal for overnight preparation and baking the next morning.

What type of bread is best for French toast casserole?
Sourdough, Italian, or French bread works best. Avoid baguettes.

Can I make this recipe gluten‑free?
Yes—use gluten‑free bread and ensure other ingredients are gluten‑free.

How do I know when it’s done baking?
The casserole should be puffed, golden‑brown, and set in the center.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven.

Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, it is completely vegan and dairy‑free.

What toppings can I use besides syrup and powdered sugar?
Fresh fruit, dairy‑free whipped cream, coconut yogurt, or nut butter all work beautifully.

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🌱 Enjoy this Vegan French Toast Casserole—rich, cozy, and perfect for brunches, holidays, and special mornings! 🍞🍓✨