If you want your home to smell like pure Christmas morning magic, this Gingerbread French Toast Casserole is the recipe that delivers. Warm spices, molasses, brown sugar, and cozy gingerbread flavor transform simple bread cubes into the most irresistible holiday breakfast.
Soft on the inside, slightly crisp on top, and drizzled with maple syrup or vanilla icing, this casserole tastes like gingerbread cookies and French toast had a delicious Christmas baby.
Perfect for Christmas morning, holiday brunch, potlucks, or cozy winter weekends — and best of all, you can prep it the night before so breakfast is effortless and extra festive.
Why You’ll Love Gingerbread French Toast Casserole
This casserole is warm, spiced, cozy, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Make-ahead friendly (overnight or same-day).
- Packed with classic gingerbread spices.
- Custardy inside + golden crisp top.
- Feels gourmet but uses simple ingredients.
- Perfect for holidays, brunch, or winter mornings.
- Smells absolutely incredible in the oven!
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This recipe gives you everything you love about French toast — buttery bread soaked in sweet custard — and layers it with gingerbread warmth. The molasses adds depth and color while cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg create that unmistakable Christmas flavor. Every bite is soft, rich, comforting, and beautifully spiced.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Casserole
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup molasses
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp cloves
- ¼ tsp salt
- 4 tbsp butter, melted (for drizzling)
For the Topping (Optional but Amazing)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
For Serving
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla icing drizzle
How to Make Gingerbread French Toast Casserole (Detailed)
1. Prep the Bread
Cut brioche or challah into 1-inch cubes and place in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
2. Make the Gingerbread Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Heavy cream
- Molasses
- Brown sugar
- Vanilla
- Cinnamon
- Ginger
- Nutmeg
- Cloves
- Salt
Pour evenly over the bread cubes.
3. Press & Soak
Gently press bread into custard so every piece absorbs the mixture.
If making ahead, cover and refrigerate overnight.
4. Add Topping (Optional)
Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, nuts, and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
5. Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–50 minutes.
Bake longer for crispier texture, shorter for a softer custard center.
6. Serve
Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of icing.
Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 18g
- Sugar: 26g
Tips for the Best French Toast Casserole
- Use day-old bread — it absorbs custard better.
- Make it overnight for maximum flavor.
- Brioche or challah works best for tenderness and richness.
- Press bread down so everything soaks evenly.
- Add chopped cranberries or raisins for extra Christmas flair.
- Add more spices if you want a stronger gingerbread flavor.
Variations & Substitutions
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Add dollops of sweetened cream cheese before baking.
- Chocolate Chip Version: Add white or dark chocolate chips.
- Gingerbread Apple Bake: Add diced apples for extra holiday goodness.
- Nut-Free: Omit nuts from topping.
- Lighter Version: Use whole milk instead of cream.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free brioche or sandwich bread.
What to Serve with This Recipe
- Maple syrup or cinnamon syrup
- Fresh berries
- Christmas fruit salad
- Bacon or sausage
- Eggnog latte or hot cocoa
- Holiday brunch boards
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using fresh bread: It won’t soak well and becomes mushy.
- Under-soaking: Let custard fully absorb for best texture.
- Skipping the topping: Adds crunch and flavor contrast.
- Baking too long: Can dry out the casserole.
Storing Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers up to 3–4 days.
- Reheat in oven or microwave (add a splash of milk if needed).
- Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 2 months.
- Freeze baked leftovers for 1 month.
Conclusion
This Gingerbread French Toast Casserole captures everything magical about Christmas — warm spices, cozy sweetness, and irresistible aroma. Whether enjoyed on Christmas morning, served at a holiday brunch, or made for a special December breakfast, this dish brings true festive joy to the table. One bite and it becomes a holiday tradition.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I make this the night before?
Yes — it’s even better when the bread soaks overnight.
What’s the best bread to use?
Brioche or challah is ideal for richness and texture.
Can I adjust the spices?
Absolutely — increase ginger or cinnamon for stronger flavor.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes — use almond milk + coconut cream.
How do I keep the top from drying out?
Cover loosely with foil for the first 20 minutes.