French Toast Casserole Recipe

There are certain dishes that evoke the warmth of home and the joy of togetherness, and our French Toast Casserole is one of those special recipes. Imagine a leisurely weekend morning, the cozy aroma of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through the kitchen, promising a treat that’ll draw everyone to the table. This French Toast Casserole is not just a delight for the taste buds but a canvas for family bonding and creativity. It’s perfect for a lazy Sunday brunch or a festive holiday breakfast, allowing you to create beautiful moments with your loved ones. The ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for any season, ensuring you spend more time enjoying the company of family and friends rather than in the kitchen.

Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: 8

Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• A pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
• Powdered sugar and maple syrup for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of butter.
2. Place the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a large 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 over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are coated well.
5. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard. For best results, cover and refrigerate overnight.
6. If soaked overnight, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
7. Dot the top of the casserole with the small pieces of butter.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
10. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup and a steaming cup of coffee.

Helpful Tips

• You can use challah or brioche bread for a richer flavor.
• Add a handful of your favorite berries or sliced bananas before baking for a fruity twist.
• If pressed for time, use day-old bread to absorb the custard mixture more quickly.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick and easy breakfast.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Replace the whole milk and heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk and coconut cream for a lactose-free version.
• Use coconut sugar instead of granulated and brown sugar for a natural sweetener substitute.

Pairings

This French Toast Casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad, crispy turkey bacon, or a side of scrambled eggs. For drinks, consider a hot cup of spiced chai or a freshly squeezed orange juice to complement the flavors.

At Zynahz, we believe that every meal is an opportunity to create cherished memories and bring a sprinkle of joy into the kitchen. We hope this French Toast Casserole Recipe inspires you to gather around the table and share the love of good food with those who matter most. Try it out and let us know how it turned out; we’d love to see your delicious creations! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and explore more of our culinary treasures on Zynahz. Follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter to never miss a sprinkle of inspiration.