French Toast Casserole is a delicious, make-ahead breakfast that combines the flavors of classic French toast with the ease of a baked dish. Perfect for holidays, brunch gatherings, or weekend mornings, this dish features soft, custardy bread infused with warm cinnamon and vanilla, topped with a crunchy streusel for added texture.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

1 loaf French bread (or brioche), cut into cubes
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces

Optional Toppings:

Maple syrup
Powdered sugar
Fresh berries

Directions

Prepare the Bread: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and evenly spread the cubed bread inside.
Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Assemble: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle the prepared topping over the casserole and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Top with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries if desired.

Nutrients (Per serving, approximately 8 servings)

Calories: 350
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 280mg

Enjoy this easy and comforting French Toast Casserole with your favorite toppings for a perfect breakfast treat!

Why French Toast Casserole is a Must-Try Dish

One of the best aspects of French Toast Casserole is its simplicity. Unlike traditional French toast, which requires individually dipping and frying each slice of bread, this casserole version allows you to prepare everything in one dish and bake it to perfection. This makes it an excellent choice for entertaining guests, as it allows you to focus on other aspects of your meal while the casserole bakes.

Additionally, this recipe is highly versatile. You can customize it with different types of bread, various toppings, and even mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to create a unique variation each time you make it.

Choosing the Right Bread

The type of bread you use can make a significant difference in the texture and taste of your French Toast Casserole. Some of the best options include:

French Bread – Provides a firmer texture that holds up well to the custard mixture.
Brioche – Adds a rich, buttery flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Challah – Similar to brioche, but with a slightly eggier taste, making it an excellent choice.
Sourdough – Offers a subtle tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the custard.

No matter which bread you choose, it is best to use day-old or slightly stale bread, as it absorbs the custard mixture better and prevents the casserole from becoming too soggy.

The Magic of the Custard Mixture

The custard mixture is what transforms simple bread into a rich, flavorful dish. The combination of eggs, milk, heavy cream, and sugar creates a creamy, slightly sweet base that soaks into the bread overnight. Cinnamon and vanilla extract are essential ingredients that add depth and warmth to the flavor profile.

Letting the casserole sit in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight is key to achieving the perfect consistency. This allows the bread to fully absorb the liquid, resulting in a tender and moist interior with a slightly crisp top once baked.

The Perfect Streusel Topping

What sets this French Toast Casserole apart is the delicious streusel topping. Made from flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter, this crumbly mixture adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, custardy bread beneath it. If you love an extra layer of texture, you can also add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel.

For best results, prepare the streusel topping ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake the casserole. This keeps the butter firm, ensuring a crisp, golden-brown topping when baked.

Serving Suggestions

French Toast Casserole is incredibly delicious on its own, but adding a few toppings can elevate it even further. Some great options include:

Maple Syrup – A classic pairing that enhances the sweetness and richness of the dish.
Powdered Sugar – A light dusting adds an elegant finishing touch.
Fresh Berries – Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a refreshing contrast.
Whipped Cream – For an indulgent, dessert-like twist.
Chopped Nuts – Almonds, pecans, or walnuts add extra crunch and a nutty flavor.

You can also experiment with flavored syrups, fruit compotes, or even a drizzle of honey for a different taste experience.

Tips for the Best French Toast Casserole

To ensure your French Toast Casserole turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

Use Stale Bread – Fresh bread can become too mushy, while slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better without falling apart.
Refrigerate Overnight – Allowing the bread to soak up the custard overnight ensures even distribution and a rich, flavorful result.
Cover While Baking – If you notice the top browning too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the inside continues to cook.
Let It Rest – Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to cut and serve.
Customize It – Feel free to add ingredients like chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or even a swirl of cream cheese for a unique twist.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

French Toast Casserole is a great dish to serve for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re preparing breakfast for a large family gathering, hosting a brunch with friends, or looking for a special weekend treat, this recipe fits the bill. Its make-ahead convenience means you can prepare it the night before and simply pop it into the oven in the morning, saving you time and effort.

Additionally, this dish can be adapted for dietary preferences. If you need a dairy-free version, substitute almond milk or coconut milk for the whole milk and heavy cream. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread. You can even reduce the sugar content or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup for a healthier twist.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, French Toast Casserole stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.

To reheat, place a portion in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. If you want to maintain the crispiness of the streusel topping, reheating in the oven is the best option.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

French Toast Casserole is a fantastic breakfast option that combines convenience with incredible flavor. With its rich custard-soaked bread, warm cinnamon and vanilla essence, and crunchy streusel topping, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a holiday breakfast, a weekend brunch, or just a regular morning, this easy, make-ahead recipe is a must-try. Plus, with endless customization possibilities, you can tweak it to suit your taste preferences. So, the next time you’re looking for a breakfast dish that’s both delicious and effortless, give French Toast Casserole a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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