Imagine waking up to a heavenly aroma of warm cinnamon and creamy goodness filling your kitchen - that's exactly what this Cream Cheese Cinnamon Casserole promises! This mouthwatering dish transforms ordinary breakfast ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience that will have your family rushing to the breakfast table. Whether you're hosting a weekend brunch or looking for a decadent weekend treat, this recipe is about to become your new breakfast obsession.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Butter for greasing the dish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- Cube the bread into roughly 1-inch pieces, ensuring they are relatively uniform in size for even cooking and texture.
- Cut the cream cheese into small cubes, approximately 1/2 inch in size, to allow for easier melting and distribution throughout the casserole.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Layer half of the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Scatter the cream cheese cubes over the first layer of bread, distributing them as evenly as possible.
- Top the cream cheese with the remaining bread cubes, creating a second layer.
- Slowly pour the egg and milk mixture over the bread and cream cheese, ensuring all pieces are moistened and the liquid is distributed evenly.
- Gently press down on the bread with a spatula to help it absorb the liquid mixture.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the custard to set and cool slightly.
- Optional: Dust with additional cinnamon or powdered sugar before serving for extra sweetness and presentation.
Tips
- Bread Selection Matters: Use day-old bread for best results, as slightly stale bread absorbs the egg mixture more effectively.
- Even Cubing is Key: Cut bread and cream cheese into uniform sizes to ensure consistent cooking and texture throughout the casserole.
- Don't Overmix: When combining eggs, milk, and seasonings, whisk just until combined to prevent a tough texture.
- Temperature Check: Let the casserole rest after baking to allow the custard to set properly, which helps achieve a perfect, creamy consistency.
- Customization Options: Experiment by adding chopped nuts, fresh berries, or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra flavor variations.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate, then bake in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra indulgent touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 160mg
