If you love the idea of French toast, but don’t care to flip slices in a pan, French toast casserole is why you need to pour yourself a glass of milk! This is a baked casserole that combines the classic flavors of French Toast and is so perfect for a crowd at breakfast or brunch!
Why French Toast Casserole?
Make-Ahead Option: Put it together the evening before and bake it the next morning.
Perfect for Sharing: Perfect for family gatherings, or holiday mornings.
Customizable: For additional flavor you can add fruits, nuts or spices.
Classic French Toast Casserole Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 6–8):
1 Loaf of Bread (about 10–12 cups, cubed): Your best bet may be brioche, challah or French bread.
8 Large Eggs
2 Cups Milk
1/2 Cup Heavy Cream
1/2 Cup Granulated Sugar
1/4 Cup Brown Sugar
1 Tbsp Vanilla Extract
1 Tsp Ground Cinnamon
1/4 Tsp Nutmeg (optional)
Pinch of Salt
Topping:
1/2 Cup Brown Sugar
1/4 Cup All-Purpose Flour
1/2 Tsp Cinnamon
1/4 Cup Cold Butter, Cubed
Optional: Chopped pecans or walnuts.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread:
Cut bread into bite size cubes, and place into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Make the Egg Mixture:
Beat together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and season with salt in a large bowl.
3. Combine and Soak:
Over the bread cube, pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cube, so that each piece is covered.
For best results, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 3 hours or overnight.
4. Prepare the Topping:
Brown sugar, flour and cinnamon in a small bowl.
You’ll cut the cold butter with a fork or a pastry cutter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Stir in nuts if using.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Put your oven on 350°F (175°C).
Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden and center is set, remove casserole from fridge and sprinkle topping evenly over.
6. Serve:
After 5–10 minutes, serve the casserole. Powdered sugar, syrup or fresh fruit can be used to top.
Variations and Add-Ons
Fruity Twist:
When baking, the bread mixture can be added fresh berries, sliced bananas, or diced apples.
Chocolate Lover’s Version:
This also makes a decadent treat as you can sprinkle chocolate chips between the bread layers.
Savory French Toast Casserole:
Take off the sugar and spices, and throw cooked sausage, cheese, and herbs in for a savory turn.
Caramelized Banana Topper:
Baking the casserole, when done, drizzle over cook banana slices in brown sugar and butter.
Tips for Success
Choose the Right Bread: Bread that is a day old, or even a little bit stale, actually soaks up the egg mixture better.
Don’t Skip Refrigeration: Soaking overnight gives the casserole a custardy, flavorful result.
Check for Doneness: When the center is no longer jiggly and a knife inserted comes out clean, it’s done.
Wrapping Up
If you’re looking for an easy make ahead breakfast that’s always a hit, this French toast casserole recipe is it. It has a rich flavor and comfortable texture, and is ideal for special occasions or a nice long morning.
How do you like to eat French toast casserole? We would love to know in the comments below!
