Delicious French Toast Casserole Recipe

Introduction

French toast casserole is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast dish, combining the warm, comforting flavors of traditional French toast into a convenient, crowd-pleasing casserole. Perfect for brunch gatherings, holidays, or weekend breakfasts, this recipe boasts a rich custard soaked into cubes of bread, topped with a sugary crunch. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a sure-hit among family and friends!

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients

1 loaf of stale bread (French or challah works best)
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
1/2 cup maple syrup (for serving)
Powdered sugar (for garnish)

Equipment

9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Butter knife (for spreading butter)
Oven
Serving spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cutting your stale loaf of bread into 1-inch cubes. If the bread is fresh, you can leave it out overnight to dry out, or lightly toast the cubes in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes until they begin to harden. This will prevent them from becoming too mushy when soaked in the custard mixture.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and beat them with a whisk. Add in the whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Whisk the mixture until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Bread and Custard

Place the cubed bread into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press the bread down to ensure that all the pieces are submerged in the custard. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Before you are ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the casserole to cook evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Once preheated, remove the casserole from the refrigerator. Bake the casserole uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing it into squares. Serve warm, drizzled with maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar on top.

Variations

French toast casserole is incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations to try:

Fruit Add-ins: Add blueberries, raspberries, or sliced bananas to the bread before pouring in the custard for a fruity twist.
Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can provide a delightful crunch. Sprinkle them on top of the casserole before baking.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips or chunks for a dessert-style casserole.
Savory Version: Swap the sugar for cheese and add cooked sausage or bacon for a hearty breakfast option.

Storage

Leftover French toast casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

French toast casserole is a great stand-alone dish, but it pairs wonderfully with:

Fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries, blueberries, or a fruit salad.
Yogurt or whipped cream for added richness.
Your favorite breakfast drinks like coffee, tea, or a mimosa for a festive brunch.

Conclusion

This French toast casserole recipe offers an easy and delicious way to enjoy a classic breakfast favorite. With its versatility, you can customize it to suit any occasion or preference. Perfect for family gatherings or holiday brunches, it’s bound to be a hit! Now that you have this simple recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking. Enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting dish!