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