French Toast Casserole
A beloved breakfast indulgence, this French Toast Casserole offers a harmonious blend of rich custard and warm cinnamon, designed to be prepped ahead for effortless morning baking.
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Ingredients
For the French Toast Base
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 loaf sourdough bread cubed (or substitute with challah, brioche, or French bread)
- 8 large eggs
For the Crumble Topping
- ½ cup unsalted butter cold and diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and distribute them evenly across a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and sugar until smooth. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring thorough coverage.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, or preferably overnight to allow for full absorption.
- To prepare the crumble topping, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl. Cut the cold butter into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter or fork until a crumbly texture is formed. Transfer the topping into a resealable plastic bag and refrigerate until use.
- When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Remove the plastic wrap from the casserole and sprinkle the prepared topping evenly over the surface.
- Bake uncovered for 45 to 60 minutes, adjusting the time depending on your preference for a softer or firmer texture.
Notes
To prepare in advance, complete all steps up to the assembly and store the topping separately. Freeze the casserole, wrapped in plastic and foil, for up to 2 months. For reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. If prebaked, heat uncovered at 350°F for 20 minutes; if unbaked, follow the standard baking instructions.
Optional Add-ins: For savory variations, consider including crumbled bacon, sausage, ham, cheese, green chilies, or chorizo. For a sweeter profile, incorporate sliced apples, blueberries, chopped pecans, pineapple chunks, orange zest, or apricots.
Optional Add-ins: For savory variations, consider including crumbled bacon, sausage, ham, cheese, green chilies, or chorizo. For a sweeter profile, incorporate sliced apples, blueberries, chopped pecans, pineapple chunks, orange zest, or apricots.