Easy Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe

This Easy Baked French Toast Casserole is a delicious and simple way to enjoy a comforting breakfast or brunch. Made with thick slices of bread soaked in a rich custard, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a buttery cinnamon-sugar crumble, this casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or treating your family to a special morning meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: Easy to assemble and bake, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the night before for a stress-free breakfast.
• Customizable: Adapt it with your favorite flavors or toppings.
• Perfect for Gatherings: A great dish for brunch parties, holidays, or family breakfasts.
• Kid-Friendly: Sweet and satisfying, it’s a hit with everyone.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Thick bread (like brioche or challah, cubed)
• Eggs
• Milk
• Heavy cream
• Vanilla extract
• Sugar
• Cinnamon
• Butter (melted)

For the Crumble Topping:

• Brown sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Butter (cold, cubed)
• Cinnamon

Directions

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Layer the Bread: Place the cubed bread in the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
3. Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, sugar, and cinnamon.
4. Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to ensure all the bread absorbs the custard.
5. Prepare the Crumble: In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, butter, and cinnamon until it forms a crumbly texture. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
7. Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes

Variations

• Berry Bliss: Add fresh or frozen berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries before baking.
• Nutty Addition: Top with chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy finish.
• Chocolate Twist: Sprinkle chocolate chips between the bread layers for a decadent touch.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard for extra warmth.
• Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk and a plant-based butter substitute.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cover leftovers and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use stale bread?

Yes, slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs the custard without becoming too mushy.

Can I make this casserole the night before?

Absolutely! Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.

What bread works best for this recipe?

Brioche, challah, or French bread are ideal due to their soft texture and ability to absorb custard.

Can I add fruit to the casserole?

Yes, add fresh or frozen fruit like berries, apples, or peaches for a fruity twist.

Is this dish suitable for dessert?

Definitely! Serve it with whipped cream or ice cream for a delightful dessert.

How do I prevent the casserole from being soggy?

Make sure the bread is evenly soaked but not over-saturated, and bake until the custard is fully set.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free bread to make the recipe gluten-free.

What toppings pair well with this casserole?

Maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh fruit are all excellent choices.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time slightly to ensure it cooks through.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The top should be golden, and a knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

Conclusion

This Easy Baked French Toast Casserole is a warm, comforting, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, prepping for a busy morning, or treating your family to a special breakfast, this recipe delivers every time. With its simple preparation and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a household favorite!

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