Easy French Toast Casserole
So, you’re on the hunt for a breakfast dish that will make you the star of brunch and sit lovingly in the “easy” category? Look no further! This casserole is all about simplicity without compromising on flavor. Perfect for lazy weekends (or busy weekdays, let’s be real), it’s a dish everyone will enjoy.
Why Make This Recipe
Why go through the tedious process of flipping individual pieces of French toast when you can have a whole casserole waiting for you? This Easy French Toast Casserole lets you mix everything together in one dish. Just pop it in the oven, and your morning becomes way less stressful.
Also, it’s versatile. You can throw in some fruits, nuts, or spread out your leftover croissants for a gourmet twist. Basically, it’s a make-ahead dream! 🌟🙌
How to Make Easy French Toast Casserole
Making this casserole is as easy as pie—actually, even easier! Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
- Cut your bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them evenly in the dish.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, making sure each piece gets a good soak. Press down gently to help the bread absorb all that goodness.
- Cover with plastic wrap and toss it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or overnight—more flavor, less stress!).
- Remove the wrap and pop it in the oven for about 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool for 5-10 minutes, slice it up, and voilà—it’s time to dig in!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf bread (about 12 slices, preferably day-old or stale)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (optional for serving)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional, but who doesn’t love a little sprinkle?)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease the 9×13 inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
- Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and place them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until everything is well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, giving them a gentle press to ensure every piece gets soaked.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or—if you’re organized—preferably overnight.
- When you’re ready, remove the plastic wrap and bake for about 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing it into squares and serving.
- Drizzle with maple syrup and dust with powdered sugar if your heart desires!
How to Serve Easy French Toast Casserole
Serve this delicious casserole warm, straight from the oven. Top it off with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of syrup, and watch it disappear faster than you can say "French toast." 🍓🥞 Seriously, it’s that good!
How to Store Easy French Toast Casserole
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or pop it back in the oven for a few minutes to bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven charm.
Tips to Make Easy French Toast Casserole
- Day-old bread is best: Stale bread soaks up the egg mixture better.
- For more flavor, add in nuts or chocolate chips.
- Make it a little fancy with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a splash of orange zest in the egg mixture!
- If you’re short on time, skip refrigerating overnight, but give it at least 30 minutes to soak.
Variation
Feel free to mix things up! Try adding berries like strawberries or blueberries, or even sliced bananas. You can even switch the toppings and go for nut butters instead of syrup.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! The overnight soak makes it even better. Just prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning.
2. What kind of bread should I use?
Challah, brioche, or any good-quality white bread works like a charm. Feel free to get creative!
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! You can freeze the casserole. Just cut it into portions, wrap securely, and it keeps in the freezer for about 2 months. Reheat and enjoy!
There you have it, my friend! This Easy French Toast Casserole is the breakfast game-changer you’ve been waiting for. Now go on and impress your family (or yourself, no judgment here!). 🍽️
Easy French Toast Casserole
Ingredients
Casserole Base
- 1 loaf 1 loaf bread (about 12 slices, preferably day-old or stale) Stale bread soaks up the egg mixture better.
- 8 large 8 large eggs
- 2 cups 2 cups milk
- 1 cup 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon salt
Serving Suggestions
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup maple syrup (optional for serving) Optional for serving.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional) Optional, but adds a nice touch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
- Cut your bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them evenly in the dish.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to help the bread absorb the mixture.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for better flavor.
Baking
- Remove the plastic wrap and bake for about 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool for 5-10 minutes, then slice it and serve.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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