Sheet Pan French Toast

Sheet pan french toast is a simple, crowd-pleasing breakfast that combines the rich flavors of custardy French toast with the convenience of baking it all at once on a single pan. Unlike traditional French toast cooked in individual slices on the stovetop, this baked version allows you to prepare a large batch for family gatherings, brunches, or meal prep with minimal effort. The custard-infused bread bakes into a golden, slightly crisp exterior with a soft, tender interior, offering the perfect balance of textures in every bite.

Delicious Breakfast Recipes

What makes this recipe special is its versatility and ease. You can prepare it overnight, letting the bread soak in the custard to enhance flavor and texture. When baked, it transforms into a stunning breakfast casserole, fragrant with warm vanilla and cinnamon, and ready to serve hot from the oven. Fans of baked French toast love it because it’s hands-off, visually impressive, and highly adaptable to seasonal fruits, nuts, or syrups. This method also ensures that each slice maintains consistent texture and flavor, making it perfect for french toast breakfast casserole easy, easy baked french toast, and sheet french toast variations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The beauty of sheet pan french toast lies in its simplicity and versatility. You get all the classic flavors of French toast rich custard, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla without the need to flip each slice individually. Baking it in a sheet pan allows the custard to evenly soak into the bread, creating a soft, tender interior while forming a lightly crisp top. This method reduces cleanup and frees you from standing at the stove, making it perfect for busy mornings or hosting brunch for a crowd.

Another reason to love this recipe is its adaptability. You can use any bread type, from brioche and challah to whole-grain loaves, depending on the flavor and texture you want. You can also add seasonal fruits, chocolate chips, or nuts to create exciting variations without compromising the classic flavor profile. This approach makes it a reliable recipe for easy french toast bake recipe, french toast baked in oven, or baked french toast recipe overnight. Additionally, it doubles as a make-ahead breakfast because the casserole can be prepared the night before, making mornings stress-free and allowing the flavors to deepen.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation time: 15-20 minutes
Soaking time (optional for overnight soak): 2-12 hours
Cooking time: 35-45 minutes
Total time: 50-65 minutes (excluding overnight soak)
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients

1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk (or milk alternative)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for drizzling)
Optional toppings: fresh berries, maple syrup, powdered sugar, chopped nuts

Substitution notes:

Milk: almond milk, oat milk, or other plant-based milk can be used.
Bread: whole wheat, multigrain, or gluten-free bread works; adjust soaking time slightly for denser bread.
Sweetener: coconut sugar or maple syrup can replace granulated sugar for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch sheet pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Ensure the pan has sides tall enough to hold the custard-soaked bread.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth. The custard should be well-blended to ensure even soaking and consistent flavor throughout the casserole.

Step 3: Assemble the Bread

Place the cubed bread evenly in the prepared sheet pan. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, pressing gently to ensure all pieces soak in the liquid. Allow it to sit for at least 5-10 minutes, or cover and refrigerate overnight for a deeper custard flavor.

Step 4: Add Butter and Optional Toppings

Drizzle the melted butter over the soaked bread cubes. If desired, sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top for extra sweetness and a lightly crisp texture. You can also add fruits or nuts at this stage for added flavor and texture.

Step 5: Bake the Sheet Pan French Toast

Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. Allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing for serving.

How to Serve

Serve sheet pan french toast warm, either directly from the pan or sliced onto individual plates. Drizzle with maple syrup or honey, dust with powdered sugar, and top with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a handful of chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. For a richer breakfast, add a dollop of whipped cream, a spoonful of yogurt, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. The vibrant colors of fruit and toppings not only enhance taste but also create a visually appealing presentation perfect for brunches, family breakfasts, or special occasions.

For gatherings or holiday breakfasts, serve the casserole in the sheet pan at the center of the table with serving utensils, allowing everyone to scoop their preferred portions. Pair it with crispy bacon, breakfast sausages, or fresh fruit salad to make a complete meal. You can also complement it with warm beverages like coffee, hot chocolate, or freshly squeezed juice for a well-rounded breakfast experience. This approach makes sheet pan french toast an effortless yet impressive centerpiece that satisfies a crowd while keeping preparation simple.

Additional Tips

Use stale or slightly dried bread for better custard absorption.
Do not over-soak bread if preparing overnight to prevent it from becoming too soggy.
Greasing the pan or using parchment ensures easy removal and cleanup.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the custard to set.
Customize with your favorite spices, fruits, or nuts for variety.
Use a serrated knife to cut the baked casserole cleanly.

Recipe Variations

Berry Sheet Pan French Toast
Add fresh or frozen berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries, between layers of bread before baking. This variation enhances flavor and color, making it a visually stunning baking french toast bakes french toast option. The berries release their juices while baking, infusing the custard with fruity sweetness.
Chocolate Chip French Toast Bake
Sprinkle semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips over the custard-soaked bread before baking. As they melt, they create pockets of gooey chocolate throughout the casserole. This variation works wonderfully for easy french toast bake recipe or a sweet brunch treat for kids and adults alike.
Pumpkin Spice Sheet Pan French Toast
Incorporate 1/2 cup pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice into the custard mixture for a seasonal twist. This variation is perfect for fall or holiday breakfasts, turning your french toast breakfast casserole easy into a festive, aromatic dish.
Overnight Cinnamon Roll French Toast
Swirl softened cinnamon sugar butter into the bread cubes before soaking with custard. Bake as usual for a decadent, cinnamon-rich breakfast reminiscent of the best french toast casserole. Top with cream cheese glaze or powdered sugar for an extra indulgent finish.
Savory Cheesy Sheet Pan French Toast
Reduce the sugar in the custard to 1-2 tablespoons, omit cinnamon and nutmeg, and fold in shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or cooked bacon. This savory variation works perfectly as a pan breakfast recipe or brunch centerpiece, offering a unique take on traditional baked French toast.
Tropical French Toast Bake
Add diced mango, pineapple, or coconut flakes between the bread layers. This variation adds a refreshing, sweet twist, making it ideal for one pan french toast or brunches with a tropical theme. Drizzle with a light citrus glaze before serving for extra flavor.
Nutty Caramel Sheet Pan French Toast
Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds over the custard-soaked bread and drizzle with caramel sauce before baking. This variation creates a crunchy, sweet topping that enhances texture and flavor, perfect for baked french toast recipe overnight gatherings.
Apple Cinnamon Sheet Pan French Toast
Fold in sautéed apples and a pinch of cinnamon into the custard-soaked bread. This creates a warm, comforting, apple-flavored breakfast casserole suitable for autumn mornings or festive brunches, highlighting flavors of easy baked french toast with a homemade touch.

Freezing and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Slice the baked French toast and freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes per portion.
If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 10 g
Fat: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 15 g

Final Words

Making sheet pan french toast at home allows you to enjoy a bakery-quality breakfast without the fuss of flipping each slice individually. The custard-soaked bread bakes to perfection, with a tender, custardy interior and a lightly crisp, golden top. This method ensures even cooking and consistent flavor, making it ideal for busy mornings, family brunches, or special occasions where you want a delicious, hassle-free breakfast that impresses everyone.

One of the standout features of this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it with seasonal fruits, chocolate chips, nuts, or even create a savory version with cheese and herbs. This adaptability makes sheet pan french toast suitable for a variety of tastes and occasions, whether you’re serving a sweet brunch spread, a festive holiday breakfast, or a simple weekday treat. Preparing it overnight also enhances the flavors, allowing the bread to fully absorb the custard and ensuring every bite is rich and flavorful.

Beyond flavor and convenience, this dish is visually appealing. A golden-baked sheet pan of French toast, topped with berries, powdered sugar, or maple syrup, creates a stunning centerpiece for any breakfast table. It’s an approachable yet elegant dish that transforms a simple morning meal into something special, making it perfect for entertaining guests or creating memorable family mornings.

Finally, mastering sheet pan french toast gives you a reliable, go-to recipe that balances ease, flavor, and presentation. It’s a dish that can be repeated over and over, yet never feels repetitive thanks to the endless customization possibilities. Cooking it at home not only satisfies cravings but also offers the joy and pride of preparing a comforting, crowd-pleasing breakfast from scratch, elevating your brunch or morning routine every time.

FAQ’s

Yes, brioche, challah, whole wheat, or even sourdough can be used. Denser breads soak up custard better and hold structure during baking.

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. This enhances flavor and texture.

Yes, use gluten-free bread. Adjust custard soaking time slightly as denser breads absorb liquid differently.

Yes, fresh or frozen fruits, chocolate chips, or nuts can be added before baking for variation.

Yes, reduce sugar, omit cinnamon, and add cheese and herbs for a savory version.