French Toast Casserole
A delightful twist on classic French toast, this casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Equipment
- baking dish
- mixing bowl
- whisk
- Plastic wrap
- oven
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter Adds richness and flavor to the dish.
- 1 loaf Sourdough, Italian, or French bread Choose a hearty loaf for the best texture.
- 8 large Eggs Creates the custard base that soaks into the bread.
- 3 cups Half-and-half Adds richness; can substitute with 1 1/2 cups each of whole milk and heavy cream.
- 3/4 cup Light brown sugar Sweetens the dish and adds caramel flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon A warm spice that complements the sweetness.
- 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground nutmeg Adds warmth and depth.
- 2 ounces Chopped nuts Pecans or walnuts add crunch and flavor.
- 1/4 cup All-purpose flour Helps create a crumble topping for added texture.
- to taste Warm maple syrup or powdered sugar For serving, adds sweetness and a beautiful finish.
- to taste Fresh berries Berries like strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing touch.
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Tear the loaf of bread into bite-sized chunks (1-2 inches) and arrange in an even layer in a prepared baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the torn bread, gently pressing down to ensure all pieces are soaked. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the casserole sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
- Prepare the crumble topping by mixing chopped nuts, flour, brown sugar, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl. Sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Check for doneness around the 40-minute mark.
- Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite toppings!
Notes
This casserole can be made ahead of time and is perfect for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts.