French toast casserole is not just breakfast; it’s a delightful way to bring the warmth of home into your kitchen. Picture a buttery, vanilla-infused custard soaking into luscious bread cubes, baked to golden perfection. Whether it’s for a leisurely weekend brunch, a cozy family gathering, or a holiday feast, this dish radiates comfort and joy. From my first attempt at making it for a family gathering, it quickly became a cherished favorite—everyone loves the sweet aroma wafting through the house and the delightful flavors dancing on their taste buds.
Why you’ll love this dish
This French toast casserole is loved for many reasons! First and foremost, it’s incredibly convenient. Just prepare it the night before, let it soak, and pop it in the oven in the morning. It’s a time-saver, particularly during busy mornings or special occasions when you want to spend time with loved ones instead of slaving over a stove. Plus, it’s budget-friendly; using a loaf of stale bread is a great way to minimize waste while creating something delicious.
It’s also a versatile dish: serve it with fresh fruit, syrup, or whipped cream to elevate it to the next level of indulgence. Here’s a word from a delighted reader: "This casserole is a game changer! It’s like having French toast for breakfast, but way easier to make for a crowd."
How this recipe comes together
Making this French toast casserole is straightforward and takes just a few simple steps. You will whisk together the custard ingredients, soak your bread, let it chill overnight, and bake it to fragrant perfection. This method not only allows the bread to absorb all those delicious flavors but also helps create a rich, custardy texture that is simply irresistible.
What you’ll need
- 1 loaf of bread (cubed)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Butter (for greasing)
- Powdered sugar (for serving, optional)
Feel free to substitute milk with almond milk or even add a splash of orange juice for a hint of citrus; the choices are endless!
Directions to follow
- Start by greasing a baking dish with a good amount of butter—this will prevent any sticking and adds extra flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and combined.
- Gently fold in your bread cubes, ensuring they are well-coated with the custard mixture.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate it overnight. This step is crucial for the bread to absorb all that delicious custard!
- When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the casserole for about 45-50 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and set in the center.
- Once fresh out of the oven, allow it to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar for that extra touch of sweetness.
Best ways to enjoy it
This casserole is best served warm. Consider pairing it with fresh berries, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream to really make it memorable. You can also serve it alongside crispy bacon or sausage for a balanced brunch spread.
How to store & freeze
To keep your leftovers fresh, allow the casserole to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the entire dish back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If you want to prepare it in advance, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply bake from frozen, adding an additional 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.
Helpful cooking tips
Here’s a pro tip: for an even richer flavor, use day-old bread or brioche, which holds moisture better and enhances the custard flavor. Feel free to experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. And remember, the longer you let it soak overnight, the more pronounced the flavors will be.
Creative twists
There are so many ways to put your personal spin on this recipe! Consider adding layers of cream cheese for a decadent cheesecake-inspired twist or incorporating seasonal fruits like peaches or apples. For a festive version, add in some nutmeg or pumpkin spice during the fall months or top it off with a cranberry compote during the holidays.
Common questions
What is the prep time for this French toast casserole?
The active prep time is about 20 minutes, but don’t forget to chill it overnight for the best results.
Can I use dairy-free substitutes?
Absolutely! Almond milk or oat milk works beautifully in place of traditional cow’s milk.
How should I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat slices in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven until heated through (about 15-20 minutes at 350°F).
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free bread, and you can enjoy this casserole without worry.
Creating this French toast casserole is not just about making a meal; it’s about cultivating moments of deliciousness and joy around the table. Enjoy every bite and every memory!
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French Toast Casserole
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and convenient way to enjoy classic French toast in casserole form, perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread (cubed)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Butter (for greasing)
- Powdered sugar (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Start by greasing a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Gently fold in the bread cubes, ensuring they are well-coated with the custard mixture.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
- When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.
- Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar for serving.
Notes
Best served warm with fresh berries, maple syrup, or whipped cream. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French