Description
Decadent baked French toast casserole with rich custard, perfect for brunch or holidays.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf (1 pound) challah bread, brioche, or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes.
- Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and air dry overnight or bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes until lightly dried.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the dried bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until light and frothy.
- Pour in the whole milk and heavy cream.
- Add sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until sugar is dissolved.
- Slowly and evenly pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes. Press down to ensure bread is submerged.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt the butter in a small bowl.
- Remove plastic wrap and drizzle melted butter evenly over the top.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until golden brown and custard is set. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
- Let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Cut into squares and serve warm.
- Drizzle with maple syrup, sprinkle with powdered sugar, top with fresh berries, or add chopped nuts.
Notes
- Bread Choice: Challah, brioche, or French bread work well.
- Drying Bread: Drying the bread prevents a soggy casserole.
- Soaking Time: Longer soaking results in a richer casserole.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate.
- Variations: Add fruit, chocolate, nuts, or spices to customize. For an adult twist, add a tablespoon or two of your favorite liqueur to the custard, such as bourbon, rum, or Grand Marnier.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes