What type of bread works best for these bites?

Day-old brioche or challah bread cubes are ideal for soaking custard while maintaining a tender texture.

Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate the casserole bites for up to a few hours before baking to enhance flavor absorption.

Whole milk and heavy cream provide richness, but you may substitute with plant-based alternatives with similar fat content for a different texture.

Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 22-25 minutes and check for a firm texture and light golden color on top.

Maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a dusting of cinnamon enhance the sweet and warm flavors.

Mini chocolate chips or fresh berries folded in before baking add variation and extra bursts of flavor.

Bite-sized, golden French toast cubes baked with a rich custard and a hint of cinnamon, perfect for breakfast gatherings or brunch parties.

This recipe became a favorite at our weekend brunches where everyone loves the crisp edges and soft centers.

Bread: 6 cups (about 12 slices) day-old brioche or challah cut into 1-inch cubes
Custard: 4 large eggs, 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 tsp pure vanilla extract, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/4 tsp salt
Topping: 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Optional: Maple syrup for serving, Powdered sugar for dusting

Step 1:: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2:: Divide bread cubes evenly among the muffin cups packing gently.
Step 3:: In a large bowl whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Step 4:: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes filling each cup to just below the rim. Gently press bread cubes to soak up the custard.
Step 5:: In a small bowl mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Drizzle or brush over each bite.
Step 6:: Let stand for 10 minutes to allow bread to absorb custard.
Step 7:: Bake 22–25 minutes or until golden and set. Cool slightly then loosen edges with a knife and remove from tin.
Step 8:: Serve warm dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with maple syrup if desired.

Making these bites is a cherished family tradition that brings everyone together over breakfast.

Serve with fresh berries and a side of coffee for a complete brunch experience.

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best results.

Add mini chocolate chips or fresh berries to the custard for an extra burst of flavor.

This dish elevates any brunch with minimal effort and maximum delight.

→ What type of bread works best for these bites?: Day-old brioche or challah bread cubes are ideal for soaking custard while maintaining a tender texture.
→ Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?: Yes, assemble and refrigerate the casserole bites for up to a few hours before baking to enhance flavor absorption.
→ What alternatives can be used for dairy in the custard?: Whole milk and heavy cream provide richness, but you may substitute with plant-based alternatives with similar fat content for a different texture.
→ How do I ensure the bites come out golden and set evenly?: Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 22-25 minutes and check for a firm texture and light golden color on top.
→ What toppings complement these toast bites?: Maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a dusting of cinnamon enhance the sweet and warm flavors.
→ Can I add mix-ins to the base mixture?: Mini chocolate chips or fresh berries folded in before baking add variation and extra bursts of flavor.