Introduction
French toast is a classic breakfast dish that brings warmth and comfort to the morning routine. However, making it for a crowd can be a bit of a challenge. Enter the French toast casserole—a dish that captures all the flavors of traditional French toast but allows you to serve several people at once with minimal effort.
This easy French toast casserole is perfect for lazy weekend mornings or special occasions like brunch with friends and family. With its layers of bread soaked in a rich custard, it’s baked to golden perfection and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (for serving)
- Powdered sugar (for serving, optional)
- Fresh berries (for serving, optional)
Directions & Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Add the cubed French bread to the mixture, gently folding until all the bread is well coated. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, drizzled with maple syrup, and topped with powdered sugar and fresh berries if desired.
FAQs
What can I do if the casserole is too dry?
If the casserole seems dry after baking, you can drizzle additional milk or cream over the top before serving to moisten it.
Why did my casserole puff up while baking?
A puffy casserole is normal due to the steam created during baking. It will settle as it cools.
Can I make this casserole with whole grain bread?
Yes, using whole grain bread will add a nutty flavor and texture, making it a healthier option.
What’s the best way to serve this casserole?
Serve the casserole warm, topped with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness.
Can I use stale bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Stale bread is ideal for French toast casserole as it absorbs the custard better without becoming mushy.
What if I want to add fruit to the casserole?
You can mix in berries or sliced bananas before baking for a fruity twist, just ensure they are evenly distributed.
Conclusion
This easy French toast casserole is a delightful way to start your day. With its warm, comforting flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a breakfast favorite in your home.
Experiment with different breads and toppings to make this dish your own, and enjoy the scrumptious results with your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Recipe Card
Delicious French Toast Casserole for a Scrumptious Breakfast
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup maple syrup for serving
- Powdered sugar for serving, optional
- Fresh berries for serving, optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Add the cubed French bread to the mixture, gently folding until all the bread is well coated. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, drizzled with maple syrup, and topped with powdered sugar and fresh berries if desired.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
