Imagine waking up to the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked French Toast Casserole wafting through your home—an irresistible breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate! This delightful American classic transforms the humble loaf of bread into a scrumptious, custardy masterpiece that serves eight, making it perfect for family gatherings or brunch with friends. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a dish that not only looks stunning but tastes heavenly. Ready to elevate your breakfast game and impress your loved ones? Dive into this recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare your baking dish by generously greasing a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cut the loaf of bread into 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size for even cooking and texture.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform layer that fills the entire pan.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, making sure to saturate all the bread pieces thoroughly. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, allowing the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) about 30 minutes before you plan to bake the casserole.
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.
- If desired, drizzle maple syrup over the top of the casserole for added sweetness and flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set and no longer liquid.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
- Serve warm, optionally garnished with additional maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or whipped cream.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, opt for a sturdy bread like brioche or challah, which will soak up the egg mixture beautifully without falling apart.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before and let it soak in the fridge overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures a perfectly custardy dish.
- Don’t Rush the Soaking: Allow the bread to absorb the egg mixture fully. Press down gently to ensure every piece is soaked, which will lead to a more uniform texture when baked.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. It’s done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Top with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.
- Serve Warm: This casserole is best served warm, so plan to let it cool for just a few minutes before diving in. The flavors will be at their peak!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 170mg
