Introduction

French toast is a beloved breakfast classic, and when transformed into a casserole, it becomes a delightful dish perfect for gatherings or busy mornings. This easy French toast casserole takes all the flavors you love and combines them into a single, satisfying bake. Imagine waking up to the warm aroma of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through your kitchen, inviting everyone to the breakfast table.

Not only is this dish simple to prepare, but it also allows for flexibility in ingredients, making it an ideal choice for using up leftover bread or incorporating seasonal fruits. Whether you prefer a rich and custardy texture or a golden, crisp top, this casserole can accommodate your preferences. Plus, it’s great for serving a crowd, allowing you to enjoy your time with family and friends rather than spending all morning cooking.

Ingredients

1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup maple syrup (optional, for serving)
Powdered sugar (for garnish, optional)
Fresh berries (for garnish, optional)

Directions & Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Add the cubed bread to the egg mixture, gently folding it in until all the bread is soaked. Allow it to sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the liquid.
Pour the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the center.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve warm, drizzled with maple syrup, and garnished with powdered sugar and fresh berries, if desired.

Delightful Easy French Toast Casserole for Breakfast step photo

FAQs

Can I use any type of bread for this casserole?

Yes, any bread works well, but day-old bread or brioche is ideal for absorbing the custard.

What if the casserole is too dry after baking?

If your casserole turns out dry, ensure that the bread is sufficiently soaked in the egg mixture before baking, and consider adding more cream or milk next time.

Can I add fruits to the casserole?

Absolutely! You can mix in fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or bananas into the bread mixture before baking.

Is it necessary to cover the dish while baking?

Covering the dish initially helps steam the bread, ensuring it cooks evenly; removing the foil later allows the top to brown.

How can I adjust this recipe to serve more people?

To scale up, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish, adjusting the baking time as needed.

What can I do if my casserole is too soggy?

If the casserole is soggy, ensure the bread is not overly soaked and consider reducing the liquid in the egg mixture.

Conclusion

This delightful easy French toast casserole not only satisfies your breakfast cravings but also makes mornings feel special. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table.

Embrace the flexibility of this recipe by experimenting with different breads and toppings. Whether it's a lazy Sunday or a festive brunch, this casserole is sure to impress and delight everyone.

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