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French Toast Casserole Recipe

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4.1 from 14 reviews

This French Toast Casserole is a delicious and comforting breakfast dish featuring cubes of French bread soaked in a sweet and spiced egg custard, topped with a crumbly cinnamon-butter streusel, and baked to golden perfection. It can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning, making it perfect for busy schedules or special occasions.

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)

Streusel Topping

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined. Toss the French bread cubes in this mixture to ensure they are evenly coated. Transfer the soaked bread cubes to a greased casserole dish, spreading them out evenly.
  2. Make the topping: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon. Use a fork to cut the cold butter into the mixture until the texture resembles coarse bread crumbs. Sprinkle this crumbly topping evenly over the custard-soaked bread in the casserole dish.
  3. Optionally refrigerate overnight: Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate if you prefer to bake it the next day. This allows the bread to soak up the custard fully, enhancing flavor and texture.
  4. Bake the casserole: When ready, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the uncovered casserole for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the custard filling is set and the top is golden brown. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly.
  5. Serve and enjoy: Optionally dust the casserole with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup before serving. This French Toast Casserole is best enjoyed warm and makes a perfect hearty breakfast or brunch dish.

Notes

  • You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it to save time in the morning.
  • Use stale or day-old French bread for best absorption and texture.
  • If preferred, add a pinch of nutmeg or substitute cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice for a different flavor profile.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use a suitable butter alternative.