Start your mornings right with this sumptuous French toast casserole recipe! This dish transforms the beloved breakfast classic into a delightful casserole that’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing. With layers of bread soaked in a custard mixture, baked to golden perfection, it’s a comforting treat that will impress your family and friends. Serve it warm with syrup or fresh fruit for an unforgettable breakfast experience.
Ingredients
– 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread
– 6 large eggs
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Powdered sugar for serving
– Fresh fruit for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 8 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Nutritional value per serving (1/8 of the casserole):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 9g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fat: 15g
– Sugar: 12g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
3. Cut the loaf of bread into thick slices and arrange them in the baking dish.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
5. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
6. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
7. Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
9. Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares.
10. Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar and garnished with fresh fruit.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute the bread with gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option. You can also use almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version, and add spices like nutmeg for an extra flavor kick.
Serving and Pairings
This French toast casserole pairs wonderfully with maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh berries. A side of crispy bacon or sausage also complements the sweetness of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish can be frozen before baking; just thaw and bake as directed.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid using stale bread; fresh bread absorbs the custard better.
– Don’t skip the refrigerating step; it’s crucial for flavor and texture.
– Ensure the custard mixture is evenly poured over the bread.
– Watch the baking time; overbaking can lead to dryness.
– Let it cool slightly before serving to enhance flavors.
Helpful Tips
– Use a mixture of different breads for added flavor and texture.
– Experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger.
– Serve with a fruit compote for a fresh twist.
– Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra indulgence.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Absolutely! Preparing it the night before allows the bread to soak up the custard, enhancing the flavor. Just cover it and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the milk and cream with almond milk or coconut milk, and use dairy-free butter for greasing the pan.
Can I add fruits to the casserole?
Definitely! You can add sliced bananas, berries, or apples into the bread layers before pouring the custard for added flavor.
How do I know when it’s fully cooked?
The casserole should be puffed up and golden brown. You can also insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean when it’s done.
What can I serve with this dish?
This casserole is great with maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit. It also pairs nicely with bacon or sausage for a complete breakfast.
Conclusion
This French toast casserole recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of French toast in a convenient, shareable format. Perfect for brunches or family gatherings, it’s sure to become a beloved addition to your breakfast repertoire. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!
French Toast Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for serving
- Fresh fruit for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Cut the loaf of bread into thick slices and arrange them in the baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
- Remove from fridge and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares.
- Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar and garnished with fresh fruit.
