Baked French Toast Casserole

There’s something incredibly satisfying about pulling a beautifully baked dish out of the oven on a cozy Saturday morning. Imagine the enticing aroma of sweet vanilla and cinnamon wafting through your home as a warm Baked French Toast Casserole emerges, golden and fluffy. As your family gathers around the table, they can’t help but dive into a slice of this delectable treat, layered with fluffy bread and creamy custard.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; the laughter and chatter over breakfast felt like a scene straight out of a cozy family gathering. This recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum smiles—a perfect solution for those busy mornings or casual brunches. Unlike traditional French toast, which requires individual slices to be cooked, this casserole bakes all at once, so everyone can enjoy without delay. Much like my popular savory breakfast burritos, this casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience.

So let’s get baking together and create something special that will charm your family and leave them asking for seconds!

What is Baked French Toast Casserole?

Now, let’s dive into the name: Baked French Toast Casserole. What a mouthful, right? You might be wondering how a simple breakfast dish earned such a fancy title. It sounds like something you’d find on a café menu, but it’s actually a humble blend of bread, eggs, and milk—simple yet extraordinary. Do you remember the saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”? Well, this dish will win over hearts—regardless of gender! It’s so tasty, I bet even your pickiest eater will clean their plate. So why not invite your loved ones, fire up that oven, and bond over a warm, sliceable joy!

Why You’ll Love This Baked French Toast Casserole

Imagine this: the crispy edges and fluffy interior of the Baked French Toast Casserole beckon you at first sight. The best part? This dish can bring a family together while saving you money—making it both a delicious main dish and a budget-friendly option. By preparing meals at home, you have control over the quality of your ingredients while also creating lasting memories.

And let’s not forget about toppings! Whether you prefer a drizzle of maple syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a dollop of fresh fruit, the flavor combinations are endless! You might even find this casserole carries more appeal than traditional French toast simply because it’s easy to serve and share. Don’t just take my word for it; bring this recipe to your next family gathering and watch it disappear!

How to Make Baked French Toast Casserole

Quick Overview

Getting your hands on a Baked French Toast Casserole is easy and incredibly satisfying. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a bake time of about 45 minutes, you can have this delightful dish on your table in under an hour. Picture that fluffy texture complemented by a sweet, aromatic flavor that warms the heart—perfect for any occasion.

Key Ingredients for Baked French Toast Casserole

To create this ambrosial casserole, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 loaf of challah or brioche bread, cut into cubes (about 10 to 12 cups)
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (you can use any milk, such as whole, almond, or oat)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or a non-dairy substitute)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• Optional toppings: fresh fruits, maple syrup, whipped cream, or powdered sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your baking dish will ensure easy cleanup later.
2. Prepare the Bread: Cut your challah or brioche into cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Mix the Custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
4. Combine: Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, gently folding them until all the cubes are soaked. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes for maximum absorption.
5. Bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with your favorite toppings.

Top Tips for Perfecting Baked French Toast Casserole

• Substitutions: If you’re looking to make this dish Halal-friendly, check for dairy products that contain no animal rennet, and use plant-based substitutes when needed. You can also opt for gluten-free bread if necessary.
• Timing: Keep an eye on your casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking for that perfect golden top.
• Common Mistakes: Make sure to allow the bread to soak sufficiently in the custard mixture to enhance that moisture and flavor.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you do happen to have leftovers (though that’s rare!), let the Baked French Toast Casserole cool completely before storing. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it—just cover securely with plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to a month.

To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. An alternative is to microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes until heated.

Ready to whip up this delicious Baked French Toast Casserole? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a heartwarming meal with your loved ones. Happy baking!

Baked French Toast Casserole

A warm and fluffy baked dish combining bread, eggs, and creamy custard, perfect for family gatherings or lazy brunches.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 loaf loaf of challah or brioche bread, cut into cubes (about 10 to 12 cups)
• 8 large large eggs
• 2 cups milk (any type, like whole, almond, or oat)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or a non-dairy substitute)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 pinch salt

Optional Toppings

• to taste fresh fruits, maple syrup, whipped cream, or powdered sugar

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking dish.
• Cut your challah or brioche into cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
• Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, gently folding them until all the cubes are soaked. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes for maximum absorption.

Baking

• Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
• Bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Serving

• Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with your favorite toppings.

Notes

For a Halal-friendly version, use dairy products without animal rennet and plant-based substitutes. For gluten-free, opt for gluten-free bread. Keep an eye on the casserole during the last 10 minutes for a perfect golden top. Allow the bread to soak sufficiently for enhanced moisture and flavor. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for a month. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

Keyword Baked, Breakfast, Brunch, Casserole, French Toast