French Toast Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a breakfast or brunch dish that’s both indulgent and easy to make, look no further than this French Toast Casserole. It combines the best elements of classic French toast with the convenience of a bake-and-serve dish.

The result is a warm, comforting casserole with golden, custard-soaked bread that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Top it off with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup, and you’ve got a dish that’s sure to impress.

This recipe is great for special occasions or lazy weekend mornings when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Cut the French bread into 1-inch cubes. Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt until well combined.
2. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure all the bread is soaked. Press the bread down gently with a spatula or your hands to ensure it absorbs the liquid.

Step 3: Prepare the Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, chopped pecans or walnuts (if using), and cubed butter.
2. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the soaked bread.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the center. You can insert a toothpick into the center to check for doneness—it should come out clean.

Step 5: Serve

1. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup and fresh berries.

Tips for Perfect French Toast Casserole

1. Use Day-Old Bread

For the best texture, use day-old or slightly stale bread. Fresh bread can become too mushy when soaked in the custard. If you only have fresh bread, lightly toast it before using.

2. Make Ahead Option

Assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, just pop it in the oven for a convenient and stress-free breakfast.

3. Customize Your Add-Ins

Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or fresh fruit to the bread mixture before baking for extra flavor and variety.

4. Serve with a Variety of Toppings

In addition to powdered sugar and maple syrup, you can top the casserole with whipped cream, fruit compote, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

5. Ensure Even Soaking

Make sure all the bread cubes are evenly soaked by gently pressing them down after pouring the custard mixture over them. This helps prevent dry spots.

Serving Suggestions

1. Classic Breakfast

Serve the French toast casserole as part of a classic breakfast spread with crispy bacon or sausage links.

2. Brunch Delight

Pair it with a fresh fruit salad and Greek yogurt for a delicious and balanced brunch.

3. Sweet Treat

Enjoy leftovers as a sweet treat with a cup of coffee or tea.

Conclusion

This French Toast Casserole is a fantastic dish for any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. Its rich, custardy texture and delightful sweetness make it a standout breakfast or brunch option. Plus, with the ability to prepare it ahead of time, it’s perfect for busy mornings or special gatherings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious and comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use other types of bread like brioche, challahan, or croissants for a richer flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the soaking time if the bread is particularly dense or soft.

2. Can I freeze French toast casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled, uncooked casserole. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

3. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread and ensure that all other ingredients, including baking powder and sugar, are certified gluten-free.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the milk and heavy cream with dairy-free milk (like almond or oat milk) and use a dairy-free butter substitute.

5. How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Yield: 8

French Toast Casserole Recipe

Print

If you’re looking for a breakfast or brunch dish that’s both indulgent and easy to make, look no further than this French Toast Casserole. It combines the best elements of classic French toast with the convenience of a bake-and-serve dish. The result is a warm, comforting casserole with golden, custard-soaked bread that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Top it off with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup, and you’ve got a dish that’s sure to impress.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 45 minutes

Resting Time 4 hours

Total Time 5 hours

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of French bread (about 12 slices), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• Topping:
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
• Optional Toppings:
• Maple syrup
• Fresh berries
• Powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread:
   Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread the cubed bread evenly into the dish.
   
2. Make the Custard:
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
   
3. Combine and Refrigerate:
   Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to ensure all the bread absorbs the liquid.
   Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, allowing the bread to soak up the custard mixture.
   
4. Prepare the Topping:
   In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
   
5. Bake the Casserole:
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and sprinkle the topping evenly over the soaked bread.
   Bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set but still soft in the center.
   
6. Serve:
   Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with maple syrup, fresh berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

Make-Ahead: This casserole is great for preparing the night before. Just pop it in the oven in the morning!

Bread Choice: French bread works well, but you can also use brioche, challah, or even sourdough for extra flavor.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.