French toast casserole is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite. Prepared with layers of bread soaked in a rich custard, this dish bakes to golden perfection and can be customized with your favorite toppings like fruits, nuts, or syrup. It’s an excellent option for feeding a crowd, and the best part? You can assemble it the night before for a stress-free morning treat!
Equipment:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap or foil
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread (cubed, about 8 cups)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Topping Ingredients:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- Optional: Chopped nuts, powdered sugar, or maple syrup for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bread:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange the cubed bread evenly in the dish.
- Make the Custard:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure all pieces soak in the liquid. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until crumbly. Store in the fridge until ready to bake.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the soaked bread. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or fresh fruit as desired.
Tips:
- Use slightly stale bread for better absorption of the custard.
- Add a handful of raisins, chocolate chips, or fresh berries for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
This French toast casserole is a game-changer for breakfast and brunch. With its sweet, spiced custard and crispy topping, it’s a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting. Whether for a holiday morning or a simple family gathering, this recipe will quickly become a staple on your table!
French Toast Casserole Recipe
This French toast casserole recipe is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast or brunch dish! Sweet, custardy bread topped with a cinnamon-sugar crunch—perfect for family gatherings or cozy mornings.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap or foil
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread cubed, about 8 cups
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg optional
- Pinch of salt
- Topping Ingredients:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter cold, cubed
- Optional: Chopped nuts powdered sugar, or maple syrup for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread:
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and arrange the cubed bread evenly in the dish.
- Make the Custard:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure all pieces soak in the liquid. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until crumbly. Store in the fridge until ready to bake.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the soaked bread. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or fresh fruit as desired.
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