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French Toast Casserole Recipe

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4.3 from 5 reviews

This French Toast Casserole is a comforting and delicious breakfast bake featuring a custardy egg and milk mixture soaked into cubed French bread, topped with a buttery cinnamon crumb topping. Perfect for making ahead or serving fresh out of the oven, it’s a sweet and satisfying treat ideal for family mornings or brunch gatherings.

Ingredients

Custard Mixture

  • 7 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 loaf French bread (about 1 pound; cubed)

Crumble Topping

  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons cold butter

Instructions

  1. Prepare the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined. Add the cubed French bread and toss gently to ensure all pieces are evenly coated with the custard.
  2. Transfer to casserole dish: Grease a casserole dish and pour the custard-soaked bread cubes into it, spreading evenly to form the base of the dish.
  3. Make the crumble topping: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Use a fork to cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse bread crumbs. Sprinkle this crumbly topping evenly over the custard-soaked bread in the casserole dish.
  4. Refrigerate or bake immediately: You can cover the casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight to allow flavors to meld and make morning preparation easier, or proceed directly to baking.
  5. Bake the casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 45-50 minutes until the custard is set and the topping turns golden brown and crisp.
  6. Serve: Once baked, let the casserole cool slightly. Serve warm topped with powdered sugar and/or maple syrup if desired for added sweetness. Enjoy your delicious breakfast casserole!

Notes

  • The casserole can be prepared the night before and refrigerated, making it perfect for busy mornings.
  • Using day-old or slightly stale French bread helps the custard absorb better without becoming too soggy.
  • Feel free to add fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas on top before baking for added flavor.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or microwave.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute half the milk with cream or use whole milk.