French Toast Casserole

French toast casserole is like a warm hug on a plate! It’s super easy to make, and you can even prepare it the night before. Wake up, pop it in the oven, and you’ve got a delicious breakfast or brunch ready to go.

This baked French toast is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or any weekend morning when you want something a little extra special. Forget standing over the stove flipping slices of French toast. With this casserole, you can feed a crowd without all the fuss!

Imagine a creamy, sweet custard soaking into soft bread, then baked to golden perfection. That’s what this French toast casserole is all about – simple ingredients coming together to create something truly amazing.

Why this French toast casserole is special

What makes this recipe extra yummy? It’s the touch of cinnamon and nutmeg. That adds a warm, comforting spice that makes every bite taste incredible. Plus, it uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen! This is a simple, and quick way to wow everyone!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing French toast casserole. Don’t worry; the ingredient list is simple. I promise you probably have most of these in your fridge and pantry right now!

• Bread: 1 loaf (about 1 pound) of challah, brioche, or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes. Trust me, the bread is the base of the dish, so choose wisely!
• Eggs: 6 large eggs. These are what helps bind the casserole and make it custardy.
• Milk: 2 cups of whole milk (or your favorite milk alternative, like almond or soy milk).
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup heavy cream. This adds richness and makes the texture perfect.
• Sugar: 1/2 cup granulated sugar.
• Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract.
• Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
• Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg.
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon salt.
• Optional Toppings: Maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream.

Bread

The right bread can make or break your French toast casserole! I highly recommend using challah, brioche, or French bread. These types of bread are sturdy enough to soak up the custard without becoming mushy. Day-old bread is ideal because it absorbs the liquid even better. If you want to try something different, check out this gluten-free bread crumbs guide for some unique options.

Dairy and Eggs

The eggs and dairy are essential for creating that creamy, custardy texture we all love in a French toast casserole. The eggs act as a binder, while the milk and heavy cream add richness and moisture. Using whole milk and heavy cream will give you the best results.

Equipment Needed

Making French toast casserole doesn’t require a ton of fancy equipment! Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• 9×13 inch Baking Dish: This is the perfect size for most French toast casserole recipes.
• Large Mixing Bowl: You’ll need this to whisk together the custard ingredients.
• Whisk: Essential for blending the eggs, milk, and spices smoothly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for the best results.
• Serrated Knife: For easily cutting the bread into cubes.

Baking Dish

A 9×13 inch baking dish is the sweet spot for this recipe. It provides enough space for the bread to soak evenly in the custard. Glass or ceramic dishes work great. Just make sure it’s oven-safe!

Other Tools

Besides the baking dish, a good whisk and mixing bowls are your best friends. The whisk helps you combine the custard ingredients until they’re perfectly smooth, and the measuring cups and spoons ensure you get the ratios just right. A serrated knife will make quick work of cubing the bread.

Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a delicious French toast casserole in no time. Don’t worry; it’s easier than it looks!

Preparing the Bread

First, you’ll need to prepare the bread. Cut your loaf of challah, brioche, or French bread into 1-inch cubes. Spread the cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. You can let them sit out for about an hour to dry out slightly, or you can toast them lightly in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This helps the bread absorb the custard better without getting soggy.

Making the Custard

Now, it’s time to make the custard. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until everything is well combined and the sugar is dissolved.

If you notice any lumps in your custard, don’t panic! Just keep whisking, and they should disappear. You can also use an immersion blender for a super smooth custard, but it’s usually not necessary. This rich custard is what gives the casserole its wonderful flavor and texture.

Assembling the Casserole

Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour the bread cubes into the prepared dish, spreading them evenly. Then, slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread, making sure to saturate all the cubes. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the custard.

At this point, you can either bake the casserole immediately or cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) to allow the bread to fully soak up the custard. Soaking it overnight is my personal preference!

Baking the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you refrigerated the casserole, take it out about 20 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature slightly.

Bake the casserole for 45-55 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and puffed up. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations

Want to take your French toast casserole to the next level? Here are some tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years, along with some fun variations to try!

Achieving the Perfect Texture

• Don’t Over-Soak: Soggy casserole is no fun. Ensure the bread isn’t too saturated. Letting the bread dry out slightly beforehand really helps!
• Bake Thoroughly: Underbaking leads to a mushy center. A knife inserted in the middle should come out clean.
• Use the Right Bread: As mentioned before, sturdy bread is key.

Customizing Your Casserole

• Fruit Frenzy: Add fresh berries, sliced bananas, or diced apples to the casserole before baking. They add natural sweetness and a pop of color!
• Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds over the top for a crunchy texture.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like cardamom, ginger, or pumpkin pie spice.
• Chocolate Chips: Add a handful of chocolate chips for a decadent treat.

Want a savory twist? Try these:

• Savory Sausage and Cheese: Mix cooked sausage and shredded cheddar cheese into the bread mixture before adding the custard.
• Spinach and Feta: Add sautéed spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired casserole. If you like this, maybe you will enjoy egg bite recipes, for more ideas.

Make-Ahead Tips

French toast casserole is a champion of make-ahead breakfasts! Here’s how to prep it in advance:

1. Assemble the casserole according to the instructions, but don’t bake it.
2. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
3. When you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator about 20-30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature slightly.
4. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed, until golden brown and cooked through.

This make-ahead method is perfect for busy mornings or when you’re entertaining guests. It allows you to enjoy a delicious breakfast without all the last-minute fuss. Reheating works great, too; just cover with foil and bake at 350F until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your French toast casserole is baked to golden perfection, it’s time to serve it up! Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions to make it extra special.

Sweet Toppings

• Maple Syrup: A classic choice! Warm maple syrup drizzled over the top is always a winner.
• Powdered Sugar: A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream is a decadent treat.
• Fresh Fruit: Berries, sliced bananas, or peaches add freshness and color.

Savory Pairings

If you opted for a savory French toast casserole, here are some delicious pairings: Consider the health benefits of your choices as well; check out the benefits of some breakfast food choices.

• Crispy Bacon or Sausage: A side of crispy bacon or savory sausage complements the flavors perfectly.
• Scrambled Eggs: Soft scrambled eggs add a protein boost and complete the meal.
• Fresh Salad: A light green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. For another breakfast egg recipe try ham and egg cups.

FAQ

Got questions about making the perfect French toast casserole? I’ve got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions to help you achieve breakfast (or brunch) perfection.

Why is my French toast casserole soggy?

A soggy French toast casserole usually means there’s too much custard or it wasn’t baked long enough. Make sure to measure the custard ingredients accurately and bake until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Using slightly dried-out bread can also help prevent sogginess, as it absorbs the custard more effectively without becoming mushy.

What is the best bread for French toast casserole?

The best bread for French toast casserole is a sturdy, slightly dense bread that can soak up the custard without falling apart. Challah, brioche, and French bread are excellent choices. Day-old bread is even better because it’s a little drier and absorbs the custard more readily. Avoid using soft, squishy bread, as it will likely result in a soggy casserole.

What is the most common mistake in making French toast?

One of the most common mistakes is over-soaking the bread. While you want the bread to absorb the custard, soaking it for too long can make it mushy. Another mistake is using the wrong heat setting. If the heat is too high, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked through. Keep the heat moderate. In addition to avoiding common mistakes, it is important to note the nutritional value of what you are cooking! If you are curious about the nutritional value, visit the nutritional value of french toast.

Do you have to soak French toast casserole overnight?

Soaking the French toast casserole overnight allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a richer, more flavorful dish. However, it’s not absolutely necessary. If you’re short on time, you can soak it for as little as 30 minutes before baking. Just make sure to press down on the bread gently to help it absorb the custard. To balance your weekend breakfast consider green bean salad to add to it.

Storing and Reheating

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat your French toast casserole so you can enjoy it again later.

Refrigeration

To store leftover French toast casserole, let it cool completely. Then, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the casserole to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it is completely cool before refrigerating it.

Reheating Methods

The best way to reheat French toast casserole is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the texture may be slightly softer. If microwaving, heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. For another great breakfast bake try baked oatmeal recipe.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – my go-to recipe for French toast casserole! I hope you’ll give it a try. It’s really the perfect make-ahead breakfast or brunch that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Breakfast with a casserole can be a filling treat, why not look to more ideas for a filling start to the day with, tater tot breakfast casserole easy delicious.

From the simple custard to the customizable toppings, this recipe is all about creating something delicious and comforting. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and making it your own! Happy cooking (and eating)!

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