The Best Baked French Toast Paula Deen (Make It Just Like She Does!)
If you’re craving a warm, cozy breakfast that tastes like a hug from the South, Paula Deen’s baked French toast is exactly what you need. This indulgent breakfast casserole has become a fan-favorite for holidays, brunch gatherings, and lazy Sunday mornings, and for good reason. With its custard-soaked bread, sweet cinnamon flavor, and that irresistible brown sugar pecan topping, it’s everything you want in a comfort food classic.
In this guide, we’re showing you how to make Paula Deen’s famous baked French toast recipe step-by-step, with tips to make it even better than the original. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this dish is make-ahead friendly, beginner-approved, and guaranteed to impress.
Keep reading to get the exact ingredients, see how to prep it overnight, and learn the little tricks that make this southern-style French toast casserole extra special. Don’t forget to grab the printable recipe card and bookmark this one, it’s about to become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
🧡 Why You’ll Love This Paula Deen Baked French Toast Recipe
If you’ve ever tried Paula Deen’s baked French toast casserole, you already know it’s not your average breakfast. This dish is rich, buttery, and unapologetically indulgent. just the way Southern comfort food should be. Whether you’re planning a holiday brunch or just want to make a lazy weekend feel a little more special, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Here’s why readers come back to this baked French toast recipe again and again:
✔️ Make-Ahead Magic
You can prep everything the night before, pop it in the fridge, and bake it fresh the next morning. No morning stress, just wake up and enjoy the smell of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through your kitchen.
✔️ Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food
From family brunches to holiday mornings, this recipe is perfect for feeding a group. It’s cozy, satisfying, and always gets people asking for seconds (and the recipe!).
✔️ That Signature Crunchy Topping
Let’s be real: the best part is the topping. A mix of brown sugar, butter, chopped pecans, and a hint of spice bakes into a golden, crunchy layer that takes this casserole over the top.
✔️ Customizable and Forgiving
No French bread? Use brioche or challah. Want to skip the nuts? Go for a brown sugar crumble. You can tweak it to your liking and it will still turn out delicious.
✔️ Southern Charm in Every Bite
This isn’t just French toast, it’s a Southern-style baked French toast casserole, packed with the warmth and decadence that Paula Deen is known for.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start whipping up this decadent dish, let’s go over the essentials. The ingredient list for Paula Deen’s baked French toast is simple, but each component plays a key role in creating that rich, custardy texture and irresistible topping.
🥖 For the Custard-Soaked Bread Base
This is the heart of the dish, a soft, eggy base that absorbs flavor like a sponge.
- 1 loaf French bread, sliced (day-old works best!)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for a warm spice boost)
- Pinch of salt
🔁 Substitution Tips:
- Use brioche or challah for a richer texture.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute with almond milk and coconut cream.
- Want it less sweet? Reduce sugar or add a splash of maple syrup instead.
🍯 For the Brown Sugar Pecan Topping
This is the part that makes the casserole unforgettable, buttery, crunchy, and perfectly golden.
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
🔁 Nut-Free Option:
Skip the pecans and double the topping for a brown sugar crumble. It’s still delicious!
💡 Pro Tip:
Chop your bread and mix your custard the night before. Letting the bread soak overnight ensures every bite is infused with rich, creamy flavor.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make Paula Deen’s Baked French Toast
This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, just prep it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning. Here’s exactly how to make Paula Deen’s baked French toast casserole with that signature crunchy pecan topping.
🥖 Step 1 – Slice and Arrange the Bread
Cut your French bread (or brioche) into thick slices or cubes, about 1 inch thick. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then arrange the bread pieces in a single layer, slightly overlapping.
🥚 Step 2 – Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Eggs
- Whole milk
- Half-and-half
- Sugar
- Vanilla
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Whisk until smooth and well combined.
🫗 Step 3 – Pour Custard Over the Bread
Slowly pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, making sure every piece is saturated. Use a spoon to gently press the bread down so it absorbs the liquid.
Pro Tip: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (at least 6 hours). This gives the bread time to soak up all that creamy, spiced goodness.
🍯 Step 4 – Make the Brown Sugar Pecan Topping
In a medium bowl, combine:
- Brown sugar
- Chopped pecans
- Softened butter
- Flour
- Cinnamon
You can combine the ingredients using a fork or your hands until the mixture becomes crumbly. You’ll sprinkle this over the casserole just before baking.
🔥 Step 5 – Bake Until Golden and Delicious
The following morning, set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temp for 15–20 minutes.
Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the soaked bread.
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set but slightly soft.
Want a crispier top? Broil for the last 1–2 minutes, just keep an eye on it!
✅ Step 6 – Cool Slightly and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for approximately 10 minutes before cutting into it.
- A dusting of powdered sugar
- Fresh berries
- A drizzle of warm maple syrup (optional but highly recommended!)
👨🍳 Expert Tips for Success
While Paula Deen’s baked French toast is already a winner, a few insider tips can help you take this dish from delicious to absolutely unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a first-time baker, these tricks will ensure your French toast turns out perfect every time.
1. Use Day-Old Bread for the Best Texture
When choosing your bread, make sure it’s slightly stale, the bread will absorb the custard mixture much better, resulting in that perfect, custardy interior. If your bread is too fresh, it might get soggy rather than absorb the rich, spiced custard.
2. Let It Soak Overnight for Extra Flavor
The best part about this recipe? It’s make-ahead! For maximum flavor and texture, let the bread soak in the custard overnight in the fridge. This gives the flavors time to meld and the bread to absorb all the goodness, resulting in a perfectly tender and flavorful casserole.
3. Don’t Skip the Pecan Topping
The pecan topping is what makes Paula Deen’s baked French toast so special. For the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, make sure to add the brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon mixture on top before baking. Want a nut-free version? You can easily swap the pecans for a simple brown sugar crumble made with butter and flour.
4. Perfect Baking Tim
Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your French toast casserole as it bakes. The top should be golden brown, and the center should be set but still slightly soft, not soggy. If you like a crispier topping, broil it for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking, but be careful not to burn it.
5. Serving Suggestions
While Paula Deen’s baked French toast is incredible on its own, here are a few ideas to make it even more indulgent:
- Top with fresh berries for a pop of color and freshness.
- Drizzle with warm maple syrup (extra indulgence never hurt anyone!).
- Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar for a delicate, refined touch.
- Pair with a side of crispy bacon or sausage links to balance the sweetness.
6. How to Store Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Baked French toast stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option. For extra crispy edges, reheat it in the oven.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions for Paula Deen’s Baked French Toast
Paula Deen’s baked French toast is the perfect dish to serve on its own, but with a few delicious additions, you can elevate your meal even further. Whether you’re looking to balance the sweetness or add a little extra flair, here are some ideas to make your breakfast or brunch even more special.
1. Drizzle with Warm Maple Syrup
You can’t go wrong with a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup. The rich, sweet flavor complements the buttery custard of the French toast perfectly, creating a comforting, indulgent breakfast. For an extra touch, heat the syrup in a saucepan with a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spiced version.
2. Top with Fresh Berries
Fresh berries like blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries add a bright, refreshing contrast to the richness of the baked French toast. They not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color to your dish, perfect for impressing your guests!
3. Whipped Cream or Powdered Sugar
For a truly decadent breakfast, top your baked French toast with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar. These toppings add a delicate sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the crunchy pecan topping.
4. Pair with Crispy Bacon or Sausage
For a well-rounded meal, serve your baked French toast with a side of crispy bacon or sausage links. The savory, salty flavors from the meat balance the sweet, custardy French toast and make this dish even more satisfying.
5. Serve with a Fruit Compote or Jam
If you’re a fan of extra fruity flavors, serve your French toast with a side of fruit compote or fruit preserves. Choose from peach, strawberry, or apricot jam to complement the sweetness of the casserole, or make your own fruit compote by simmering berries with a little sugar.
6. Add a Scoop of Ice Cream
Feeling extra indulgent? Top your baked French toast with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cinnamon ice cream. This makes for a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for special occasions like holidays or family gatherings.
🧊 Storage & Freezing Tips for Paula Deen’s Baked French Toast
If you happen to have leftovers or want to make this dish ahead of time, here’s everything you need to know about storing and freezing your Paula Deen baked French toast to maintain its flavor and texture.
Storing Leftover Baked French Toast
After enjoying your delicious baked French toast, you might have some leftovers. Here’s how to store it properly:
- Cool the French toast completely before storing it to prevent excess moisture buildup.
- Place the leftovers in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. This will keep the French toast fresh and ready for reheating.
When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes.
Freezing Baked French Toast
To enjoy Paula Deen’s baked French toast later, freezing is a great option. Follow these steps to freeze your casserole:
- Cool completely before freezing to prevent moisture from forming in the container.
- Cut the French toast into individual portions to make reheating easier later.
- Wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and then wrap the entire dish in aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can place the slices in an airtight freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bags.
- Label with the date, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to eat it, you have two options:
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes to reheat.
- For a quicker option, you can reheat directly from frozen by baking at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 3-4 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
You can also freeze the topping separately and add it right before baking for extra crunch.
For the best texture, it’s better to freeze the French toast before baking if you plan to prepare it in advance. Just follow the instructions for assembling the dish, then freeze it unbaked. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
🎉 Conclusion: Your Go-To Recipe for Perfect Baked French Toast
Whether you’re hosting a holiday breakfast or simply treating yourself to a comforting, make-ahead brunch, Paula Deen’s baked French toast is the perfect choice. Its buttery, rich custard, crispy pecan topping, and indulgent flavors will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, with the flexibility to customize and make it ahead of time, this recipe is not just delicious, it’s convenient and stress-free!
We hope this guide has inspired you to recreate this Southern favorite in your own kitchen. Remember, the secret to the best baked French toast is using quality ingredients, letting it soak overnight, and topping it off with a golden, crunchy layer. We’d love to hear how your version turns out, drop a comment below or share your photos with us on social media!
🌟 Try Other Delicious Breakfast Recipes:
- Cinnamon Roll Casserole – Sweet, gooey, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Overnight Oats Recipes – Easy, no-bake breakfasts that are perfect for busy mornings.
- Classic Pancakes – Fluffy, golden, and ideal for any occasion.
🍞 A Perfect Pairing: Paula Deen’s Cornbread Dressing
Looking for another Paula Deen classic to complement your breakfast spread? Check out this Cornbread Dressing recipe for a savory, flavorful side that pairs perfectly with your baked French toast. It’s the perfect dish for any holiday feast or family gathering.
Paula Deen’s Baked French Toast
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Fork or whisk
- Knife for slicing bread
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread day-old or slightly stale
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup pecans optional, for topping
- 1/4 cup maple syrup optional, for drizzling
- 1 cup fresh berries optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the bread: Slice the French bread into 1-inch thick slices and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Make the custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, half-and-half, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour the custard: Pour the custard mixture over the bread slices, making sure they are all soaked. Press the bread down gently to ensure it absorbs the mixture.
- Refrigerate: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Garnish: After baking, let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries, pecans, and maple syrup.
Notes
- Make-ahead option: Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it the next morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version of this dish.
- Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! You can use whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a fun twist.
FAQ
Can I make Paula Deen’s baked French toast without pecans?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of nuts or prefer a simpler topping, you can easily omit the pecans. Try a brown sugar crumble made with butter and flour for a deliciously sweet, crunchy layer. You can also go without any topping for a more classic version.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make a dairy-free version, substitute the whole milk and half-and-half with almond milk or another plant-based milk. Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute instead of regular butter. This way, you can still enjoy a creamy, custardy texture without the dairy.
How far in advance can I make this baked French toast?
This recipe is perfect for make-ahead prep! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. After pouring the custard over the bread, cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. The longer it soaks, the more flavorful and custardy it will be.
How do I reheat leftover baked French toast?
To reheat leftovers, place the French toast in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes. For a crispier topping, reheat it in the oven.
Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of bread like brioche, challah, or sourdough. Each type of bread will give a unique texture and flavor to the dish, but be sure to use slightly stale bread for the best results, as it soaks up the custard more effectively.
