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French Toast Casserole Recipe

French Toast Casserole Recipe

5 from 29 reviews

This French Toast Casserole is a deliciously rich and comforting breakfast dish perfect for any occasion. Cubes of French bread are soaked in a custard mixture infused with cinnamon and vanilla, layered over a caramelized brown sugar and butter base, then baked to golden perfection. Topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, this casserole offers a perfect balance of sweet and spice with a satisfying texture that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread and Base

  • ½ loaf French bread (about 8 oz), cut into cubes
  • ½ cup butter
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar

Custard Mixture

  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (divided)

Topping

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • Powdered sugar for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter a 13×9 inch baking dish thoroughly and set it aside to prevent sticking.
  2. Create the Brown Sugar Butter Base: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the 1 cup of packed brown sugar until fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Pour this rich caramel-like mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  3. Add the Bread Cubes: Spread the French bread cubes evenly over the brown sugar and butter layer, ensuring good coverage for maximum flavor infusion.
  4. Mix the Custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until well combined. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently if necessary to make sure all bread pieces soak up the liquid. Sprinkle the remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 1 tablespoon brown sugar evenly over the top.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. Remove from the oven and optionally dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy warm!

Notes

  • Use slightly stale bread for better absorption of the custard mixture.
  • For added flavor, consider adding a dash of nutmeg to the custard.
  • Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes after baking so it firms up for easier serving.
  • Serve with fresh fruit or maple syrup for extra indulgence.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast casserole, baked French toast, breakfast casserole, brunch recipe, cinnamon French toast