Description

French toast casserole is a delightful breakfast dish that combines soft, custardy bread soaked in a rich egg mixture, baked to golden perfection. This make-ahead recipe is perfect for family gatherings or lazy weekend brunches, filling your kitchen with the warm aromas of cinnamon and vanilla. Serve it warm with a drizzle of maple syrup for a truly memorable meal that will become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

1 loaf challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
½ cup real maple syrup
Optional: ½ cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped
Optional: Powdered sugar for serving

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
Place the bread cubes in the greased dish and pour the egg mixture over them. Gently fold to coat without squishing the bread.
Cover with foil and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight.
Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until golden brown on top. Let cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and serving warm with maple syrup.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (about 150g)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 210mg

Keywords: Stale bread works best for better absorption of the egg mixture; fresh bread may become too soggy. For added flavor, mix in fruits like blueberries or bananas before baking. You can use a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top prior to baking for extra crunch.