Have you ever craved a decadent breakfast dish that is both comforting and easy to make? Look no further than this delightful French Toast Casserole recipe. Combining the classic flavors of French toast with the convenience of a casserole, this dish is perfect for lazy weekend mornings or special occasions. Plus, you can enjoy it with your favorite toppings for a truly personalized touch. Follow along for a delicious breakfast treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
French Toast Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread, preferably day-old, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 8 large eggs
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– Maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, or whipped cream for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Place the French bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Use a spatula to gently press down on the bread, ensuring it is completely coated with the egg mixture. Allow the bread to soak for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb the liquid.
5. Dot the top of the casserole with the cold butter pieces. These will help create a golden, buttery crust as the casserole bakes.
6. Bake the French Toast Casserole in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. You can test for doneness by inserting a knife into the center – if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
7. Once the casserole is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make it easier to slice.
8. Serve the French Toast Casserole warm, drizzled with maple syrup and topped with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch. Enjoy this delightful treat with a side of crispy bacon or a steaming cup of coffee for a complete breakfast experience.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch with friends or simply looking to elevate your weekend breakfast routine, this French Toast Casserole is sure to impress. With its rich custardy texture and flavor reminiscent of a classic French toast, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Make a batch ahead of time and reheat individual servings throughout the week for a fuss-free breakfast on busy mornings. Gather your ingredients and get ready to savor every delicious bite of this irresistible dish – the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and satisfying flavors.