Easy French Toast Casserole Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Yield: 8 servings

French toast casserole is the ultimate comfort breakfast that brings all the flavors of classic French toast into an easy-to-make dish. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday mornings, or a weekend treat, this casserole offers a delightful mix of soft and custardy bread topped with a sweet and crunchy topping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This French toast casserole is simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy mornings. It can be prepped the night before, saving time and effort. With its rich custard base and golden, buttery topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients for French Toast Casserole

For the Casserole:

• 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Place the cubed bread evenly into the dish.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.

Step 3: Add the Topping

In a separate bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and pecans (if using). Mix until a crumbly texture forms. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the soaked bread.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries.

Tips for Success

• Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread absorbs the custard better, resulting in a richer texture.
• Overnight Prep: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning.
• Adjust Sweetness: Reduce the sugar in the custard if planning to serve with sweet toppings like syrup.

Variations and Substitutions

• Fruit Additions: Add fresh or dried fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or raisins for extra flavor.
• Nut-Free Option: Skip the pecans for a nut-free version.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk or oat milk for whole milk, and use a vegan butter alternative for the topping.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze baked casserole portions in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup. For a savory balance, serve alongside bacon, sausage, or scrambled eggs.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of a creamy custard base and a buttery, cinnamon-sugar topping creates a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Baking it all together makes serving easy, and the flexibility to customize ingredients ensures it suits everyone’s tastes.

Conclusion and Call to Action

This easy French toast casserole is a fantastic addition to any breakfast or brunch table. Its make-ahead convenience and delightful taste make it a recipe worth sharing. Try it out and share your experience with others. Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more delicious recipes and tips!

FAQ

1. Can I use other types of bread? Yes, brioche, challah, or sourdough work wonderfully.
2. Can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free bread and flour for a gluten-free version.
3. How do I prevent a soggy casserole? Ensure even soaking and bake uncovered for the last 15 minutes.
4. Can I halve the recipe? Yes, adjust the ingredients proportionally and use a smaller baking dish.
5. What’s the best way to add a crunchier topping? Double the topping ingredients or add extra pecans for more texture.

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