Breakfast

French Toast Casserole

Name: French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 loaf of bread (preferably challah or brioche); 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup melted butter; Powdered sugar (for serving); Maple syrup (for serving)

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French toast casserole is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite. This dish combines the comforting flavors of traditional French toast into a savory, baked form, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy family meal. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for special occasions, brunch gatherings, or lazy weekend mornings. Let’s dive into the delicious world of French toast casserole!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: Approximately 300
Protein: 10 grams
Carbohydrates: 45 grams
Fat: 12 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 8 grams
Sodium: 400 mg

Why Make This French Toast Casserole

There are plenty of reasons to whip up a batch of French toast casserole. Firstly, its combination of sweet and creamy flavors brings a warm, inviting aroma into your kitchen. This dish is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to customize it with fruits, nuts, or even chocolate chips for those with a sweet tooth. Additionally, it’s perfect for meal prep—just mix, soak, and bake. Whether it’s a festive brunch or a satisfying weekday breakfast, this casserole fits the bill beautifully.

How to Make French Toast Casserole

Ingredients:

1 loaf of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup melted butter
Powdered sugar (for serving)
Maple syrup (for serving)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.

Step 2: Mixing

Cut the bread into cubes and place them in the prepared baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is well combined. Pour this egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring they are completely saturated.

Step 3: Cooking

Drizzle the melted butter on top of the bread mixture. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight. This step allows the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up the custard. When ready to bake, remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Finishing

Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and serving with warm maple syrup.

How to Serve French Toast Casserole

This casserole shines when served warm, straight from the oven. For an extra touch, you can top it with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s perfect for brunch with friends, holiday breakfasts, or even as a cozy dessert.

How to Store French Toast Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or pop the entire casserole back in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.

Expert Tips for Perfect French Toast Casserole

Choice of Bread: For the best flavor and texture, use challah or brioche. However, you can also use day-old baguette or even whole grain bread.
Make Ahead: This casserole is perfect for meal prep. Just let it soak overnight and bake it in the morning for an effortless breakfast.
Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or seasonal fruits to elevate the dish.
Serving Size: This recipe serves about 8, but it can easily be halved or doubled to suit your needs.

Delicious Variations

Add fresh blueberries or sliced strawberries into the bread mixture before baking for a fruity twist.
Substitute almond milk or another milk alternative for a healthier version.
Sprinkle nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
For a richer flavor, add a splash of orange or almond extract in addition to vanilla.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use stale bread for this recipe? Yes! Stale bread works perfectly as it absorbs the custard better without becoming mushy.
Can I freeze French toast casserole? Yes, you can freeze it before baking! Just thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
What toppings work well with French toast casserole? Maple syrup, fresh fruits, whipped cream, or a dusting of cinnamon sugar are all great options.
Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely! Just use gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the casserole before baking? Yes, letting it soak in the refrigerator allows the bread to absorb the custard, resulting in a better texture.

Conclusion

French toast casserole is a delightful, crowd-pleasing dish that embodies warmth and comfort in every bite. Its ease of preparation makes it perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating your family to a special meal. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a breakfast masterpiece that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try, and enjoy the smiles around your table!