Name: Delicious French Toast Bake Casserole for Your Brunch
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 loaf (approximately 450 g) French bread, or Texas Toast, cut into 2 cm cubes; 8 large eggs; 480 ml whole milk; 120 ml heavy cream or half-and-half; 200 g brown sugar, divided; 50 g granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon (15 ml) vanilla extract; 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided; 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) ground nutmeg; 65 g plain flour; 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 g) salt; 113 g unsalted butter, cold, cut into small cubes

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French Toast Bake Casserole is a delightful breakfast dish that transforms classic French toast into a warm, comforting casserole. This recipe is perfect for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts, combining cubes of French bread soaked in a rich custard mixture, topped with a sweet crumble. It’s not just delicious; it’s easy to prepare and can even be made the night before, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This French Toast Bake Casserole

This French toast casserole is a game-changer for breakfast enthusiasts. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
1. **Easy Preparation**: With simple steps, you can whip this up in no time.
2. **Perfect for Meal Prep**: Prepare it the night before and bake in the morning.
3. **Crowd-Pleaser**: Great for brunches, it serves 8 easily.
4. **Customizable**: Add your favorite fruits or nuts for a personal touch.
5. **Comfort Food**: The warm, custardy interior is pure bliss.
6. **Versatile**: Enjoy it with maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh berries.
This dish is a fantastic example of a baked French toast recipe that embodies a delightful breakfast casserole with French toast, making it a must-try!

Ingredients for French Toast Bake Casserole

Gather these items:

1 loaf (approximately 450 g) French bread, or Texas Toast, cut into 2 cm cubes
8 large eggs
480 ml whole milk
120 ml heavy cream or half-and-half
200 g brown sugar, divided
50 g granulated sugar
1 tablespoon (15 ml) vanilla extract
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) ground nutmeg
65 g plain flour
1/4 teaspoon (1.5 g) salt
113 g unsalted butter, cold, cut into small cubes

How to Make French Toast Bake Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Lightly coat a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish with non-stick spray and preheat oven to 175°C.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, 50 g granulated sugar, 100 g brown sugar, vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully blended.
Step 3: Fold bread cubes into the egg mixture, turning gently to coat until the mixture is thoroughly absorbed.
Step 4: In a medium bowl, combine flour, remaining 100 g brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and salt. Add cold butter and incorporate using a fork or pulse with a food processor until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 5: Transfer the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly across the surface.
Step 6: Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the topping is crisp and the center is set without excess moisture.

Delicious French Toast Bake Casserole for Your Brunch - French Toast Bake Casserole - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect French Toast Bake Casserole

Keep these in mind:

For a cinnamon French toast bake, add extra cinnamon to the custard.
Let it sit overnight for the best flavor absorption.
For a flavor twist, consider adding cream cheese for a French toast bake with cream cheese.
This dish is vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.

Best Ways to Serve French Toast Bake Casserole

Here are a few serving ideas:
1. Drizzle with warm maple syrup for that classic taste.
2. Serve with fresh berries on top for a delightful French toast bake with berries.
3. Pair with whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

Delicious French Toast Bake Casserole for Your Brunch - French Toast Bake Casserole - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat French Toast Bake Casserole

To store leftovers, cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 175°C until heated through. This method helps maintain its delightful texture, making it perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About French Toast Bake Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect French Toast Bake Casserole?

The key is to let the bread soak in the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes or overnight. This ensures every bite is custardy and flavorful.

Can I make French Toast Bake Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Simply bake it in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.

How do I avoid common mistakes with French Toast Bake Casserole?

Ensure your bread is slightly stale to absorb the custard better. Also, avoid overbaking, as you want a moist center without excess moisture.

Variations of French Toast Bake Casserole You Can Try

Get creative with these variations:
1. Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
2. Incorporate seasonal fruits like apples or peaches for a fresh touch.
3. For a healthier option, try a gluten-free French toast bake recipe using gluten-free bread.
Each variation can offer a new take on this classic French dish!

For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out our breakfast category or try our Raspberry Baked Oatmeal recipe!

For tips on making the perfect custard, visit Serious Eats for expert advice.