This French Toast Casserole is a sweet morning treat made with bread, eggs, and milk, all baked to perfection. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Perfect for weekends, you can make it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready. Just don’t forget the maple syrup—it’s a must! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Use French bread or challah for their texture and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, regular sandwich bread works, but let it sit out overnight to stale a bit.
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for the custard base. If you’re looking for a vegan option, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg).
Milk: Whole milk provides creaminess, but any milk or plant-based milk like almond or oat would be great substitutes.
Sugar: Granulated and brown sugar adds sweetness. You can use maple sugar or coconut sugar as alternatives if you prefer a less processed option.
Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These spices bring warmth. If you’re not a fan of nutmeg, just skip it! You could also experiment with pumpkin spice for a different twist.
How Do I Ensure My French Toast Casserole Stays Moist and Delicious?
To keep your casserole from drying out, here are a few tips:
- Let the bread soak in the egg mixture for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the fridge if you want to prepare ahead.
- Cover the dish with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking to trap moisture, then uncover it to let the top crisp.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center. It should come out clean when set.
These steps ensure you have a soft, custardy texture with a lovely golden top. Enjoy every bite of your French Toast Casserole! 🍞🍳
French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf of French bread or challah, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 6 cups)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Maple syrup, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This French Toast Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-55 minutes to bake. The total time, including cooling, is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish (or a similar size) with some butter or cooking spray. This helps the casserole not stick to the dish.
3. Arrange the Bread:
Place the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s spread out so every piece gets that delicious custard mixture!
4. Mix the Custard:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined.
5. Pour the Mixture:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Use a spatula or your hands to gently press down on the bread cubes to help them soak up all that tasty custard.
6. Add Butter:
Scatter the small pieces of butter evenly over the top of the soaked bread. This will create tasty bits of buttery goodness as it bakes!
7. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a lovely presentation. Serve warm with maple syrup on the side—yum!
Enjoy your cozy, bakery-style French Toast Casserole! Perfect for sharing with family and friends or savoring all to yourself! 🍞🥞
Can I Use Stale Bread for This Casserole?
Absolutely! Stale bread is perfect for French Toast Casserole as it absorbs the custard mixture better without becoming too soggy. If you don’t have stale bread, you can dry fresh bread in the oven at a low temperature for about 15 minutes.
Can I Make This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before by following the recipe up to the baking step. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. In the morning, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to keep it moist, if necessary.
Can I Freeze French Toast Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it! Cover the cooled casserole tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.