French Toast Casserole Recipe

This French Toast Casserole is a perfect make-ahead breakfast or brunch dish that’s sure to impress! Thick slices of bread are soaked in a rich custard mixture and baked to golden perfection, then topped with a buttery cinnamon crumble. It’s a delicious and comforting dish that’s easy to assemble and can be customized with your favorite flavors.

Ingredients

French Toast:

• Sourdough bread: Sourdough bread adds a slightly tangy flavor and a sturdy texture that holds up well in the casserole. You can also use brioche, challah, or French bread.
• Large eggs: Create a rich and custardy texture.
• Milk: Adds richness and helps to create a smooth custard.
• Heavy cream: Adds extra richness and a velvety texture.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the casserole.
• Sugar: Sweetens the custard and adds a touch of caramelization to the baked casserole.

Topping:

• All-purpose flour: The base of the crumble topping, providing structure.
• Packed light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to the crumble.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds a warm and comforting spice.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Cold unsalted butter: Cut into pieces, the butter creates a flaky and buttery crumble topping.

How to Make French Toast Casserole

Step 1: Assemble the Casserole

1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and scatter them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and sugar until well combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure all the bread is soaked.
5. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the custard and creates a soft and tender texture.

Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping

1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients using your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture is crumbly.
3. Place the crumble topping in a small resealable plastic bag and refrigerate overnight.

Step 3: Bake and Serve

1. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Remove the casserole dish from the refrigerator and unwrap it.
3. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the bread mixture.
4. Bake uncovered for 45-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The baking time will depend on how soft you like your French toast casserole.
5. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve

This French Toast Casserole is delicious served:

• Warm: Enjoy it fresh out of the oven for a comforting and satisfying breakfast or brunch.
• With toppings: Add your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruit, maple syrup, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
• For a crowd: This casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd, whether it’s a family brunch or a holiday gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Store the crumble topping separately and add it when you’re ready to bake. You can also freeze the baked casserole. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat the casserole, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. If it was prebaked, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or until heated through. If it wasn’t prebaked, bake it according to the recipe instructions.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can use any type of milk you like, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. However, the flavor and richness of the casserole may vary slightly.

2. Can I make this casserole without the topping?

Yes, you can omit the topping if you prefer. The casserole will still be delicious, but it won’t have the added crunch and sweetness from the crumble.

3. Can I add other ingredients to the casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite fruits, nuts, or even chocolate chips to the casserole for extra flavor and texture.

4. How can I prevent the casserole from becoming soggy?

Make sure to use a bread that’s sturdy enough to hold up in the custard mixture. You can also blind-bake the bread cubes for a few minutes before adding the custard to help prevent them from becoming soggy.

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