Imagine waking up to the aroma of sweet, cinnamon-infused bread wafting through your home. This French toast casserole is the perfect way to kickstart your morning or impress guests during brunch. It’s a simple, make-ahead dish that transforms ordinary bread into a luxurious breakfast option.
With layers of fluffy bread soaked in a creamy egg mixture and topped with a crunchy streusel, this casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of warm maple syrup and fresh berries adds a delightful touch that elevates this dish to another level.
Whether you’re serving it for a holiday breakfast or a weekend treat, this French toast casserole is sure to bring smiles to the table. It’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
The Ultimate French Toast Casserole Recipe
This delightful French toast casserole features thick slices of bread soaked overnight in a rich mixture of eggs, milk, and vanilla. It’s baked to perfection, producing a soft and custardy interior with a crisp topping that balances the flavors beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of thick bread (such as challah or brioche), cut into cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Maple syrup and fresh berries for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes and set aside.
- Make the Egg Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Combine: Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring they are evenly coated. Gently fold in the melted butter and nuts, if using.
- Refrigerate: Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and uncover. In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar and a bit of cinnamon, then sprinkle it over the top of the casserole.
- Cook for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with maple syrup and fresh berries on the side.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (plus overnight chilling)
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 50g