Can French Toast Casserole be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! French Toast Casserole is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it the night before, which makes mornings so much easier. First, assemble the casserole by layering the bread and pouring the custard over it. Then, cover it tightly and let it soak in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully. In the morning, just pop it in the oven and relax while it bakes. It’s a lifesaver for busy mornings or when hosting brunch. You’ll love how simple and convenient it is. Plus, it tastes even better after soaking overnight!

How do I store and reheat French Toast Casserole?

Storing French Toast Casserole is easy. First, let it cool completely before putting it in the fridge. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F. This keeps the crust crispy and the inside soft. If you’re in a hurry, use the microwave, but it won’t be as crispy. Add fresh toppings before serving to make it taste just like new!

What kind of bread is best for French Toast Casserole?

The best bread for French Toast Casserole is sturdy and slightly stale. This helps it soak up the custard without getting too soggy. Brioche and challah are fantastic choices because they’re rich and fluffy. French bread also works well, giving a slight crunch to the crust. If you prefer a denser texture, sourdough is a great option. In addition, using day-old bread improves the texture. You can mix different types for added flavor, too. The key is to use bread that holds up well and absorbs all the custard goodness!

Can I make a dairy-free or gluten-free version of French Toast Casserole?

Yes, you can easily make a dairy-free or gluten-free version of French Toast Casserole. For a dairy-free option, use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk instead of regular milk. They add great flavor without the dairy. For gluten-free, choose your favorite gluten-free bread. It’s that simple! Also, double-check that all other ingredients, like toppings and flavorings, are gluten-free. You can still enjoy all the deliciousness without any worries. This casserole is super flexible, so you can change it however you like. It’s fun to customize and just as tasty!

French Toast Casserole: Easy Breakfast Delight

Description

This French Toast Casserole is the perfect breakfast or brunch solution for busy mornings! It combines all the classic flavors of traditional French toast but in a convenient, oven-baked casserole form. Imagine soft, fluffy bread soaked in a rich cinnamon-spiced custard, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a drizzle of maple syrup or fresh fruit. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy breakfast treat, this make-ahead dish is a winner every time. Delicious, versatile, and hassle-free!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Casserole:

1 loaf of day-old brioche or challah bread, cubed (about 10 cups)
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk (or almond milk for dairy-free)
½ cup heavy cream (optional for extra richness)
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
¼ teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

½ cup unsalted butter, melted
½ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)

Optional Toppings:

Maple syrup
Powdered sugar
Fresh berries
Whipped cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Casserole Base

Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Layer the Bread: Arrange the cubed bread evenly in the baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

Whisk the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Combine and Soak: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cubed bread, pressing down gently to ensure all pieces are soaked.

Step 3: Chill and Set

Refrigerate Overnight (Optional): Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard. This step enhances the flavor and texture, but you can also bake it immediately.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

Mix the Topping: In a medium bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts (if using).
Sprinkle the Topping: Evenly sprinkle the topping mixture over the soaked bread.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake: Bake the casserole for 45-55 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set but slightly soft.
Cool Slightly: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Top and Serve: Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or whipped cream. Enjoy the cozy, cinnamon-spiced goodness!

Notes

Make-Ahead Tips:
- Overnight Prep: Assemble the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, just bake and enjoy!
- Short on Time? Let it soak for at least 30 minutes before baking for a quicker option.
Storage and Reheating:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or in the microwave for a quick option.
Variations:
- Fruit Add-Ins: Add sliced bananas, apples, blueberries, or strawberries for a fruity twist.
- Savory Version: Swap the sugar and cinnamon for herbs, cheese, and cooked bacon or sausage for a savory breakfast bake.
- Nut-Free: Skip the nuts or substitute with seeds for a crunchy alternative.
Customizations:
- Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk instead of dairy milk and cream.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use your favorite gluten-free bread for a delicious gluten-free breakfast.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce the sugar to suit your taste or use natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.
Tips for Success:
- Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better without getting too soggy.
- Press Down the Bread: Gently press the bread cubes into the custard to ensure even soaking.
- Golden Top: For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
Cuisine: American / Breakfast

Nutrition

Calories: ~350 kcal
Sodium: ~250 mg
Fat: ~15g
Saturated Fat: ~8g
Carbohydrates: ~45g
Protein: ~8g
Cholesterol: ~120 mg