Easy French Toast Casserole Recipe

Imagine waking up to the comforting aroma of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through your kitchen. There’s something undeniably special about a warm, gooey slice of French toast casserole, especially when it’s easy to prepare and feeds a crowd. This Easy French Toast Casserole Recipe transforms your favorite breakfast treat into a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for leisurely weekend brunches or festive gatherings. With a delightful custard soaking into crusty French bread, topped with a buttery crumble, this casserole is bound to become a family favorite.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Easy French Toast Casserole Recipe is a keeper for several reasons:

• Effortless Preparation: Simply assemble the night before and let it sit. In the morning, just pop it in the oven.
• Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for brunches, holidays, or feeding a large family.
• Customizable: Easily adapted with different toppings, fruits, or spices to suit your taste.
• Deliciously Indulgent: The combination of custard-soaked bread and a sweet, buttery topping makes for a decadent treat.

What We’re Using

For this Easy French Toast Casserole Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 loaf (about 15 oz.) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (2% or whole milk)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Equipment Breakdown

Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather the equipment you’ll need:

• Baking Dish: A large casserole dish (9×13 inches is ideal).
• Mixing Bowls: One for the custard and one for the crumb topping.
• Whisk: To mix the eggs and other ingredients smoothly.
• Knife: For cutting the bread and butter.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.

Cooking Easy French Toast Casserole Recipe: The Process

Now, let’s get to the fun part: cooking this Easy French Toast Casserole Recipe. Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cutting your French bread into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a large baking dish, spreading them out evenly.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, maple syrup, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until well combined. Pour this mixture over the bread cubes, making sure every piece is soaked. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the custard.

Step 3: Chill Overnight

Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the bread to soak up all the delicious flavors.

Step 4: Prepare the Crumb Topping

In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cold butter, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and salt. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until crumbly.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Remove the casserole from the fridge and sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the bread mixture. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and set in the center.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Serve warm, drizzled with additional maple syrup if desired. Enjoy this Easy French Toast Casserole Recipe with your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

No-Store Runs Needed

You might already have most of these ingredients in your pantry. Here’s a quick checklist:

• French bread
• Eggs
• Milk
• Heavy cream
• Sugar and brown sugar
• Maple syrup and vanilla extract
• Butter and all-purpose flour
• Salt

Cook’s Notes

• This casserole can be made with any type of bread, but French bread gives it the ideal texture and flavor.
• Feel free to add in your favorite mix-ins, like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit.
• If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar in the custard mixture.
• For a spicier flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture.

Prep Ahead & Store

This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my casserole is too soggy?

If your casserole turns out soggy, it may be due to too much liquid or not enough soaking time. Ensure you measure your liquids correctly and let the bread soak long enough to absorb the custard without being overly saturated.

Can I freeze the Easy French Toast Casserole?

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

How do I know when my casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when it’s puffed up, golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

Can I use other types of milk?

Yes! You can substitute with almond milk, oat milk, or any other milk alternative you prefer. Just keep in mind that the creaminess may vary slightly based on the milk used.

Save & Share

If you love this Easy French Toast Casserole Recipe, don’t forget to save it for later and share it with your friends and family! It’s a dish that’s sure to impress and bring everyone together around the breakfast table.

In conclusion, this Easy French Toast Casserole Recipe is the perfect way to elevate your brunch game. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a go-to for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a delightful breakfast, you can’t go wrong with this crowd-pleasing dish. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this delightful casserole!