Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about waking up to the smell of a delightful Baked French Toast Casserole wafting through the house. This recipe embodies the essence of family bonding and creating cherished memories together over a warm, home-cooked breakfast. With a golden, crispy top and a custardy, melt-in-your-mouth interior, this dish delights both the eyes and the palate. Perfect for lazy weekend mornings or special occasions, it’s a wonderful way to gather loved ones around the table and start the day on a sweet note.

Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: 8

Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread, cut into thick slices
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Powdered sugar, for serving
• Fresh strawberries, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Arrange the bread slices in the baking dish, overlapping slightly if necessary to fit them all.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring all pieces are well soaked. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid.
5. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set but still slightly soft in the center.
7. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before dusting with powdered sugar and garnishing with fresh strawberries.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

• For a more indulgent version, add a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts between the bread layers.
• If you’re making this ahead, cover the assembled casserole and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh the next morning.
• Let the baked casserole rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to ensure it sets properly.
• Use stale bread for best results, as it absorbs the custard mixture better without becoming too mushy.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through, or in the microwave in short intervals.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
• Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a unique flavor twist.
• Add a pinch of cardamom for an additional layer of warm spice.

Suggested Pairings

Serve this Baked French Toast Casserole with a side of crispy turkey bacon or fresh fruit salad for a complete breakfast. Pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of freshly squeezed orange juice.

At Zynahz, our mission is to spread joy and creativity in the kitchen, bringing families together over delicious meals. We hope this Baked French Toast Casserole recipe inspires you to create new memories with your loved ones. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your delightful results with Zynahz. Share it with friends and family and spread the love for wholesome, heartwarming meals. Dive into more recipes on Zynahz, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest mouth-watering ideas and inspiration.