Gingerbread French Toast Casserole (Not Overnight!)

This Gingerbread French Toast Casserole is a warm, spiced breakfast bake that’s perfect for holiday mornings or brunch gatherings. It combines hearty French bread with a rich, custard-like filling and a crumbly, spiced topping.

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Picture this: It’s Christmas morning. The tree lights are twinkling, gift wrap is scattered across the floor, and your family is gathered around the kitchen table. In the oven, a warm, spiced Gingerbread French Toast Casserole is bubbling away, filling your home with the cozy aroma of the holidays.

This recipe is the ultimate holiday breakfast solution. It’s easy to assemble, feeds a crowd, and delivers festive flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a big brunch or just want something special for your family, this dish is sure to impress—and you can even prep it the night before for a stress-free morning.

In this recipe, I use my salt & sugar-free gingerbread spice from my spice company – The Spice Girl Kitchen. I’m completely biased because it is, after all, my spice recipe and the best salt & sugar-free gingerbread spice on the market. Feel free to sub it for cinnamon instead or make your own homemade gingerbread spice mix!

This post is all about Gingerbread French Toast Casserole!

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Not Just Bread Pudding

While bread pudding and French Toast Bake share a similar base, this dish is all about balance. The bread is tender and custardy but not dense, and the crumb topping adds a delightful crunch. The addition of gingerbread spices transforms it into something truly magical and holiday-ready.

Perfect for a Crowd

With minimal hands-on prep and no flipping or frying, this bake lets you enjoy your morning with loved ones instead of standing over the stove.

Ingredient Deep Dive

French Bread

• Why it’s the star: French bread’s sturdy, airy texture absorbs the custard without falling apart, creating the perfect balance of soft and chewy.
• Pro tip: Day-old or slightly stale bread works best because it soaks up the liquid more effectively.
• Other options: For a richer bake, try brioche or challah. For a subtle tang, sourdough is a great alternative.

The Spice Girl Kitchen Gingerbread Spice

• Our gingerbread blend takes the guesswork out of seasoning, with warm notes of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. It’s the secret to making this dish feel undeniably festive.
• Other options: If you don’t have this ingredient readily available, feel free to sub it for cinnamon OR make your own homemade gingerbread mix!

Custard Base

• Eggs: These create the luscious, creamy texture that holds the bake together.
• Milk & Cream: A combination that adds richness without being overly heavy.
• Sugars: Brown sugar provides a caramel-like depth, while granulated sugar balances the sweetness.

A Quick History of French Toast

Did you know French toast has been enjoyed for centuries? Its origins date back to ancient Rome, where cooks soaked stale bread in milk and eggs to create a delicious and economical dish. Over time, this humble treat has evolved into a breakfast staple—and in this recipe, it becomes the centerpiece of a holiday feast.

How to Make This Recipe Step-by-Step

Want to see how it all comes together? Follow these simple steps! (Photos coming soon!)

1. Prep Your Baking Dish: Spray a 9×13-inch dish with cooking spray and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, and gingerbread spice until smooth and well combined.
3. Soak the Bread: Add the cubed French bread to the custard, tossing gently to ensure every piece is coated. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the liquid.
4. Prepare the Crumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, gingerbread spice, and salt. Use a fork or pastry cutter to work in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Assemble the Bake: Pour the soaked bread mixture into your prepared dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the top.
6. Bake: Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
7. Garnish and Serve: For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Equipment Needs

Essentials:

• 9×13-inch baking dish: the perfect size for even cooking.
• Large mixing bowls: one for the custard and one for the topping.
• Whisk: ensures a smooth custard.
• Pastry cutter or fork: for a quick and easy crumb topping.

Optional:

• Fine mesh strainer: for a beautiful powdered sugar garnish.
• Serving tools: a large spatula for easy portioning.

You May Also Like

If you like this recipe, check out my other gingerbread recipes like:

• Gingerbread Espresso Martini
• Gingerbread Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips
• Gingerbread Energy Bites

OR click here to check out the entire Gingerbread category!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make-Ahead

Assemble the bake the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, just add the topping and bake—easy peasy!

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to retain that crispy topping. For best results, this recipe is best enjoyed right away after baking!

Can You Freeze It?

Yes! Freeze it fully assembled (before baking) or after it’s cooked and cooled. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

Variations and Customizations

• Add-ins: Dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or even chocolate chips can add a delightful twist.
• Dietary Adjustments: Use dairy-free milk and cream for a lactose-free version or swap out sugar alternatives to reduce added sugar.

This post was all about Gingerbread French Toast Casserole!