Name: Baileys French Toast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 8 h 10 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 9 h 25 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 1 loaf brioche, Texas toast, or thick French bread (12 slices); 6 large eggs; 3/4 cup half-and-half cream; 1/2 cup Baileys Irish Cream (or substitute Baileys coffee creamer Irish Cream non-alcoholic); 4 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup maple syrup; Powdered sugar, for dusting; Additional cinnamon, for sprinkling; Whipped cream, for serving; Green sprinkles (optional, for garnish)

If you love a cozy, indulgent breakfast with a twist, then this Baileys French Toast Casserole Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Imagine thick brioche slices soaked overnight in a boozy, spiced custard and baked to golden perfection—pure brunch magic!

A white square dish filled with a layered cinnamon bread pudding, showing multiple folded pieces of golden brown toasted bread with a light dusting of powdered cinnamon sugar. On top of the bread pudding, there are six dollops of white whipped cream evenly spaced, each sprinkled with bright green sugar crystals, adding a pop of color. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface, and there is a blurred dark bottle in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Baileys French Toast Casserole Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Baileys French Toast Casserole Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Baileys French Toast Casserole Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I still remember the first time I made this Baileys French Toast Casserole—it instantly became the star of our holiday brunch spread! It’s effortless to prepare and impressively delicious with every bite.

Overnight Convenience: Prep it one evening and wake up to a ready-to-bake brunch dish without morning stress.
Rich & Decadent: Baileys Irish Cream and warm spices create a custard that’s both creamy and festive.
Perfect for Gatherings: Serves up to 12 people, making it ideal for holidays or weekend brunches.
Customizable Toppings: Powdered sugar, whipped cream, and festive green sprinkles let you make it your own.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this casserole plays a vital role, whether it’s building that rich custard or adding the perfect texture. When shopping, pick a loaf of brioche or thick-cut bread that’s sturdy enough to soak up all those luscious flavors without falling apart.

Flat lay of a thick loaf of brioche bread sliced into large pieces, six whole uncracked brown eggs, a small white ceramic bowl of half-and-half cream, a small white ceramic bowl of Baileys Irish Cream coffee creamer, a small white ceramic bowl filled with light brown granulated brown sugar, a small white ceramic bowl of pure vanilla extract with a deep amber color, a small white ceramic bowl containing warm cinnamon powder, a small white ceramic bowl of golden maple syrup, a small white ceramic bowl of fine powdered sugar, a small white ceramic bowl of smooth whipped cream topped with a few green sprinkles, all arranged symmetrically and balanced, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Brioche, Texas toast, or thick French bread: These sturdier breads soak up the custard beautifully without turning mushy.
Large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the custard mixture.
Half-and-half cream: Adds creaminess without being too heavy.
Baileys Irish Cream: The star ingredient that infuses the casserole with a subtle, boozy warmth. Non-alcoholic Baileys coffee creamer works great too!
Brown sugar: Boosts sweetness and adds a hint of molasses depth.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor aroma, making it smell heavenly while baking.
Ground cinnamon: Brings in that classic warm spice note perfect for this cozy dish.
Maple syrup: Adds a natural sweetness and complements the spices perfectly.
Powdered sugar: For dusting and a pretty finishing touch.
Additional cinnamon: Sprinkled on top for extra warmth and color.
Whipped cream: Adds a light, fluffy contrast to each bite.
Green sprinkles (optional): Perfect for festive occasions like St. Patrick’s Day or holiday brunches.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

The beauty of this Baileys French Toast Casserole Recipe is how easily it adapts to your taste and occasion. Whether you want to amp up the decadence or tailor it to a dietary need, there’s room to play and make it truly yours.

Non-Alcoholic Version: I love using Baileys coffee creamer Irish Cream as a substitute for the Baileys Irish Cream to keep all the creamy flavor without the alcohol. It’s perfect for family-friendly brunches or when you want the same rich taste with less kick.
Seasonal Fruits: Try layering in some fresh berries or sliced apples between the bread layers before soaking. I once added thinly sliced strawberries and cinnamon-spiced apples, which gave a delightful fresh contrast to the custardy richness.
Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before the final uncovered bake. That crunch adds a wonderful textural balance and a toasty note I’ve come to really enjoy.
Spice It Up: Feel free to experiment by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard mix. These warm spices pair beautifully with the cinnamon and Baileys flavor, and I often do this around the holidays for an extra cozy vibe.
Vegan Adaptation: Although this casserole traditionally uses eggs and half-and-half, swapping in a plant-based cream and a flax or chia egg mixture can work well if you want a vegan-friendly brunch option. It may shift the texture just a bit, but the flavor remains irresistible!

Step-by-Step: How I Make Baileys French Toast Casserole Recipe

A white baking dish with red handles holds six slices of plain white bread arranged in two rows of three, each slice covering the entire base of the dish. The bread top surfaces are lightly soaked, showing some areas with a pale, moist texture while the edges remain dry and soft. The bread's crusts are light golden brown, contrasting slightly with the pale, spongy center. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with some faint, natural gray veins. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Prepare Your Casserole Dish and Arrange the Bread

Start by generously spraying a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents the casserole from sticking. Next, arrange your 12 thick slices of brioche (or your chosen bread) in two layers inside the dish. Lay 2 rows of 3 slices each on the bottom, overlapping slightly, then repeat for the top layer. Not using the end pieces helps keep the texture even and avoids any overly crusty spots. Taking the time to layer the bread neatly makes the final casserole hold its shape beautifully.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk 6 large eggs with ¾ cup half-and-half, ½ cup Baileys Irish Cream, 4 tablespoons brown sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ cup maple syrup until everything is smooth and fully blended. It helps to use a balloon whisk to incorporate some air, which contributes to a lighter custard texture. The sweet-spicy aroma you’ll notice here is already setting the tone for a decadent breakfast!

Step 3: Soak the Bread Layers Thoroughly

Pour half of the custard mixture evenly over the bottom layer of bread slices, making sure each piece gets soaked. Then pour the remaining custard over the second layer on top. Don’t rush this step—gently press the bread slices down with a spatula to help the liquid soak in deeply. This soaking is crucial for achieving that rich, custardy texture that’s the hallmark of a great French toast casserole.

Step 4: Cover and Refrigerate Overnight

Cover your casserole tightly with aluminum foil. For best results, spray the underside of the foil with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking. Then pop it into the fridge for about 8 hours or overnight. This long refrigeration allows the bread to absorb all those flavors deeply and helps the custard set perfectly before baking.

Step 5: Bake Covered at 350°F (176°C) for 1 Hour

Remove the casserole from the fridge and while keeping the foil on, let it sit at room temperature as you preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (176 degrees C). Bake the casserole covered for 1 hour. It’s super important to have a very tight foil seal—adding a second layer if necessary—to keep moisture locked in and avoid a soggy bottom. You’ll notice the kitchen starting to fill with that irresistible, warm cinnamon scent.

Step 6: Uncover and Bake for an Additional 10 Minutes

After the hour is up, carefully remove the foil and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes. This final step crisps up the top beautifully, turning it a light golden brown with just a touch of crunch. Keep an eye on it in those last minutes to avoid over-browning.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish Before Serving

Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit uncovered for 5 minutes. This resting time is key—it allows the custard to set fully, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart. Before serving, dust generously with powdered sugar, sprinkle a bit more cinnamon, add dollops of whipped cream, and scatter green sprinkles if you want that festive pop. Serve warm and enjoy the decadent layers of flavor and texture!

Top Tip

These tips will help you nail the perfect Baileys French Toast Casserole every time—moist and custardy on the inside, with just the right golden crust on top!

Overnight Soaking: Allow the bread to soak in the custard mixture overnight in the fridge. I found this step ensures every bite is tender and full of flavor.
Foil Spray Hack: Spraying the underside of the foil with non-stick spray is a game changer. It prevents the custard from sticking to the foil during baking and keeps the top smooth.
Tight Foil Seal: Make sure to seal the foil tightly around the casserole dish before baking. I learned the hard way that any steam escaping can make the bread soggy instead of custardy.
Rest Before Serving: Letting the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to cut and serve without it falling apart.

How to Serve Baileys French Toast Casserole Recipe

A soft, cinnamon-spiced roll sits on a white square plate, showing a light golden-brown outside with swirls of cinnamon inside. On top is a white dollop of whipped cream sprinkled with bright green sugar crystals. Next to the roll is a silver fork resting on the plate. In the background, there is a white rectangular dish filled with more cinnamon rolls topped with whipped cream and green sugar, all placed on a white marbled surface with a blurred green patterned cloth behind. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your Baileys French Toast Casserole truly shine, dust it generously with powdered sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon right before serving. Add a dollop of fluffy whipped cream on top for that rich, creamy contrast. For festive flair, especially around St. Patrick’s Day, don’t hesitate to sprinkle green sugar crystals or sprinkles to brighten up the presentation.

Side Dishes

This casserole is deliciously filling on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider serving it with fresh seasonal fruit like berries or orange slices. Crispy bacon or breakfast sausage pairs beautifully, adding a savory contrast to the sweet custard flavors. A simple side of Greek yogurt or a bowl of toasted nuts can also provide a nice texture balance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Baileys French Toast Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it tightly to maintain moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers by wrapping individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen portions are best enjoyed within 1-2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge before warming.

Reheating

Reheat your casserole portions in a 350°F (176°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until warm throughout. Alternatively, microwave individual servings on medium power for 1-2 minutes, though the oven method preserves the texture better.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of bread for this casserole?

Absolutely! While brioche is ideal for its rich texture, you can also use Texas toast or thick French bread. Avoid very thin or soft breads as they might get soggy.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of this recipe?

Yes! Substitute Baileys Irish Cream with Baileys coffee creamer Irish Cream (non-alcoholic) to keep the signature creamy flavor without alcohol.

How important is the overnight refrigeration step?

It's key to developing a custardy texture. Soaking overnight allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a tender and flavorful casserole.

Can I make the casserole ahead and bake it on the same day?

While the recipe is designed for an overnight soak, you can prepare and let it sit at room temperature for an hour or two if short on time—but the texture won’t be as rich or custardy.

Final Thoughts

Making this Baileys French Toast Casserole Recipe has become one of my favorite ways to celebrate special mornings with family and friends. The ease of prepping it the night before means less morning stress and more time savoring each delicious bite together. Whether you keep it traditional or add your own twist, it’s sure to bring warmth, indulgence, and a little Irish charm to your table. Happy baking—and even happier brunching!