Name: French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 loaf brioche (or challah, or French bread), cut into 1-inch cubes; 6 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

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Why Make This Recipe

French Toast Casserole is a delicious way to enjoy breakfast without spending too much time cooking. It combines the classic flavors of French toast in a simple, easy-to-make dish that serves a crowd. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions like holidays. You can prepare it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning.

How to Make Traditional French Toast Casserole

Ingredients:

1 loaf brioche (challah, or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes)
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, pressing the bread down lightly so it absorbs the liquid.
Drizzle melted butter over the top.
Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
Bake uncovered for 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries.

How to Serve Traditional French Toast Casserole

Serve the French Toast Casserole warm, straight from the oven. It pairs well with maple syrup drizzled on top, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a handful of fresh berries. You can also add whipped cream for extra sweetness.

How to Store Traditional French Toast Casserole

If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it up in the oven at a low temperature.

Tips to Make Traditional French Toast Casserole

Use day-old bread for better texture. Stale bread absorbs the custard better than fresh bread.
Feel free to double the recipe if you’re feeding a larger group.
Add your favorite toppings before baking, such as chopped nuts or chocolate chips, for an extra treat.

Variation

You can customize this casserole with different flavors. Add fruits like bananas, apples, or berries to the bread for a fruity twist. You could also mix in chocolate chips for a decadent touch.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and let it sit in the refrigerator. Just bake it in the morning.

2. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

3. Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! You can use any bread you like, but thicker breads like brioche or challah work best because they soak up the custard without falling apart.