French toast casserole is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of traditional French toast without the hassle of standing by the stove flipping slices. This dish is perfect for a weekend breakfast, brunch, or holiday gathering. It’s easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and is sure to please a crowd with its rich, custardy texture and sweet, cinnamon-spiced flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of day-old French bread, challah, or brioche, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or your preferred type)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the bread cubes in the dish, arranging them in an even layer.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Add the Topping: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole. If desired, sprinkle additional cinnamon and brown sugar over the top for extra sweetness and crunch.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream if desired. Enjoy!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, this casserole is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, simply bake it as directed.
Q: What type of bread is best for French toast casserole? A: Day-old French bread, challah, or brioche works best because they are sturdy and absorb the custard well without becoming too mushy. Avoid using soft sandwich bread.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze French toast casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the casserole? A: Absolutely! You can add ingredients like chopped nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips to the bread mixture before baking. Fresh fruit like blueberries or sliced bananas can also be added for extra flavor.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? A: Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using plant-based milk and cream alternatives. Ensure that any butter substitutes used are also dairy-free.
Q: What can I substitute for heavy cream? A: If you prefer not to use heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or additional milk. The casserole will still be delicious, though slightly less rich.
This French toast casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any breakfast or brunch. Its ease of preparation and delicious flavor make it a great addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy!