French Toast Casserole

French Toast Casserole

Introduction:

This French Toast Casserole recipe brings the classic flavors of French toast in a delightful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for gatherings or a leisurely weekend brunch. Prepare it the night before and bake in the morning for a stress-free breakfast that feels indulgent and tastes heavenly.

Ingredients:

• For the Casserole:
  • 1 loaf of French bread, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
• For the Topping:
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into pieces
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Maple syrup for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bread:
   • Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the bread slices in the dish, slightly overlapping if necessary to fit them all in.
2. Mix the Custard:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring all pieces are coated. Press down lightly to submerge the bread.
3. Make the Topping:
   • In a separate bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Assemble:
   • Sprinkle the topping evenly over the soaked bread. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
5. Bake the Casserole:
   • The next morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole covered for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 25-30 minutes or until the top is crisp and golden.
6. Serve:
   • Let the casserole cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm with maple syrup on the side.

Conclusion: This French Toast Casserole is a crowd-pleaser with its rich, custardy interior and crisp, sugary topping. It’s a perfect dish to make ahead for special occasions or a luxurious weekend breakfast. Enjoy the ease and delight of serving a warm, comforting dish that everyone will love.

Customize this recipe by adding fresh fruits like blueberries or sliced bananas, or stir some orange zest into the custard for a citrusy twist. Enjoy creating and savoring this delicious breakfast casserole!