Irresistible French Toast Casserole Recipe for Breakfast Bliss

French toast casserole is one of those breakfast delights that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning. Picture this: fluffy, custardy bread soaked in a sweet vanilla and cinnamon mixture, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Just the smell alone can awaken even the sleepiest of souls. For more inspiration, check out this more breakfast recipes recipe.

Now, let me take you back to a lazy Sunday brunch at my house. Friends gathered around the table, laughter echoing off the walls, and someone finally exclaimed, “This is like dessert for breakfast!” That’s the magic of French toast casserole; it transforms your ordinary brunch into an extraordinary feast that leaves everyone smiling and asking for seconds.

My best friend once declared this dish as “the secret weapon” for all family gatherings, especially when her kids were involved. The smiles on their faces said it all.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bread: Use thick slices of brioche or challah for optimal soaking and flavor absorption.

• Eggs: Fresh eggs are best; they help create a rich, custardy texture.

• Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; feel free to use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.

• Cinnamon: A dash brings warmth; choose freshly ground if possible for the best flavor.

• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates the sweetness and aroma; skip artificial versions if you can.

• Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar gives a lovely caramel note; adjust according to your sweetness preference.

• Powdered Sugar: For serving; it adds a beautiful finish and sweetness without overpowering.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make French Toast Casserole

Prepare Your Bread: Start by cutting your bread into cubes about one-inch in size. Place them in a greased baking dish so they fit snugly without being overcrowded.

Create Your Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth. The mixture should look glossy and fragrant.

Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the custard over the bread cubes evenly. Gently toss until every piece is coated well. Let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb those delicious flavors.

Bake It Up!: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until golden brown on top. The edges should be crispy while the center remains soft.

Add Finishing Touches: Once out of the oven, dust with powdered sugar before serving. You can also drizzle maple syrup on top if you’re feeling indulgent!

Serve Warm and Enjoy!: Scoop generous portions onto plates while still warm. Add fresh berries or whipped cream if desired for an extra treat!

This French toast casserole is not just breakfast; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any gathering! Enjoy every bite as you reminisce about good times shared with friends and family!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the bread mixture the night before to maximize flavor absorption. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes before baking for best results.

Add Your Touch

Try swapping regular bread for croissants or brioche for a richer taste. You can also add chocolate chips or fresh fruit for extra indulgence.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, about 15 minutes.

Sharing my first attempt at this dish brings back fond memories of laughter and chaos in the kitchen as family gathered around, eagerly awaiting their first bite of French Toast Casserole.

FAQ

Can I use different types of bread for French Toast Casserole?

Absolutely! Brioche or challah works beautifully and adds more flavor.

How long can I store leftovers of French Toast Casserole?

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days; reheat when ready to enjoy.

Is it possible to prepare French Toast Casserole in advance?

Yes! Assemble it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning for convenience.

Print

French Toast Casserole

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

French Toast Casserole is the ultimate breakfast indulgence, perfect for lazy weekend mornings or festive gatherings. This delightful dish features layers of fluffy brioche or challah bread soaked in a sweet vanilla and cinnamon custard, baked until golden brown and topped with a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser that transforms any brunch into a memorable feast.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 cups brioche or challah bread (cubed)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk (or almond/oat milk)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• Powdered sugar (for serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Cut the bread into one-inch cubes and place them in the dish.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
4. Pour the custard over the bread cubes and gently toss to coat. Let sit for 15 minutes.
5. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until golden brown on top.
6. Dust with powdered sugar before serving and enjoy warm.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece (130g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 210mg

Keywords: Prepare the casserole the night before for enhanced flavor; let it soak in the fridge overnight. Experiment with different breads like croissants for added richness or mix in chocolate chips for a decadent twist.