Name: French Toast Bake Casserole: 5 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 loaf (approximately 450 g) French bread, or Texas Toast, cut into 2 cm cubes; 8 large eggs; 480 ml whole milk; 120 ml heavy cream or half-and-half; 200 g brown sugar, divided; 50 g granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon (15 ml) vanilla extract; 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided; 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) ground nutmeg; 65 g plain flour; 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 g) salt; 113 g unsalted butter, cold, cut into small cubes

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French Toast Bake Casserole is a delightful breakfast dish that transforms the classic French toast into an easy-to-make casserole. This recipe features cubes of French bread soaked in a rich custard mixture, topped with a sweet crumble. It’s perfect for busy mornings or lazy brunches, providing a comforting and delicious start to your day.

Why You’ll Love This French Toast Bake Casserole

This French toast casserole offers a variety of benefits that make it a must-try. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a quick breakfast. Second, this recipe can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy leisurely mornings without the fuss. Third, it’s a crowd-pleaser, ideal for family gatherings or brunch parties. Additionally, you can customize it with your favorite toppings, such as berries or cream cheese, giving it a personalized touch. The sweet and comforting flavors make it irresistible, and it’s a fantastic way to use leftover bread. Plus, it fits perfectly into a vegetarian diet, making it accessible for many.

Ingredients for French Toast Bake Casserole

Gather these items:

1 loaf (approximately 450 g) French bread, or Texas Toast, cut into 2 cm cubes
8 large eggs
480 ml whole milk
120 ml heavy cream or half-and-half
200 g brown sugar, divided
50 g granulated sugar
1 tablespoon (15 ml) vanilla extract
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) ground nutmeg
65 g plain flour
1/4 teaspoon (1.5 g) salt
113 g unsalted butter, cold, cut into small cubes

How to Make French Toast Bake Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Lightly coat a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish with non-stick spray and preheat oven to 175°C.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, 50 g granulated sugar, 100 g brown sugar, vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully blended.
Step 3: Fold bread cubes into the egg mixture, turning gently to coat until the mixture is thoroughly absorbed.
Step 4: In a medium bowl, combine flour, remaining 100 g brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and salt. Add cold butter and incorporate using a fork or pulse with a food processor until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 5: Transfer soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly across the surface.
Step 6: Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the topping is crisp and the centre is set without excess moisture.

Pro Tips for the Perfect French Toast Bake Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Use stale bread for better absorption of the custard mixture.
For added flavor, let the mixture sit overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Experiment with different types of bread, like challah or brioche, for a richer taste.
Consider adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for a unique twist.
Always check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.

Best Ways to Serve French Toast Bake Casserole

This sweet breakfast casserole with French toast is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it even further. Serve it warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar. For an extra indulgent touch, add whipped cream or serve with fresh berries on the side. You can also pair it with bacon or sausage for a complete breakfast experience.

French Toast Bake Casserole: 5 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy - French Toast Bake Casserole - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat French Toast Bake Casserole

To store leftovers, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 175°C for about 20 minutes or until heated thoroughly. This method helps to maintain the crisp topping while warming the center. This makes it a great overnight French toast bake option for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About French Toast Bake Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect French Toast Bake Casserole?

The secret lies in using the right bread type and allowing it to soak in the custard mixture long enough. A quality bread like French bread or brioche will absorb the custard better, enhancing flavor and texture.

Can I make French Toast Bake Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it in the morning for a warm, fresh breakfast. This makes it perfect for brunch gatherings or busy mornings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with French Toast Bake Casserole?

To prevent a soggy casserole, be sure not to over-soak the bread. Also, ensure that the baking dish is adequately prepared with non-stick spray to avoid sticking. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time for the best results.

Variations of French Toast Bake Casserole You Can Try

There are many fun twists you can try with this recipe. For a French toast casserole with cream cheese, add dollops of cream cheese between the bread cubes before baking. You might also enjoy a cinnamon French toast casserole by increasing the cinnamon content and adding a crunchy topping of nuts and oats. If you love fruit, consider a French toast casserole with berries for a fresh, tangy flavor. Each variation maintains the essence of this classic dish while offering something new!

For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out our breakfast category. If you’re interested in other baked goods, you might enjoy our chocolate oatmeal bars or caramel whiskey bread pudding. For tips on meal prep, visit Thanksgiving salads ideas.

For more information on the health benefits of using whole grains in your diet, you can refer to this Healthline article.