Delicious French Toast Casserole Recipe You’ll Crave Every Morning
This french toast casserole recipe offers a comforting and indulgent breakfast experience with rich vanilla and cinnamon flavors.
Equipment
- 13" x 9" baking dish
- - Large bowl
- Whisk
- refrigerator
- Oven
Ingredients
For the Custard
- 6 large eggs Essential for a rich, custardy texture.
- 1 2/3 cups whole milk Adds creaminess; can substitute with almond milk for dairy-free.
- 1 cup heavy cream Increases richness; half-and-half works for a lighter version.
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar Provides sweetness and hint of molasses flavor.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon Essential for warm, cozy taste.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract Use high-quality for best flavor.
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
For the Bread
- 1 (1-lb.) loaf white bread Preferably day-old for optimal absorption; brioche or challah can be substitutes.
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup sliced raw almonds Adds lovely crunch.
- 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar Dust on top for a sweet finish.
- Fresh berries For serving, optional.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, pure vanilla extract, and kosher salt until fully combined, creating a luscious custard base.
- Submerge each slice of white bread in the egg mixture, making sure to turn it once after soaking for about 4 seconds. Arrange the slices in a 13" x 9" baking dish, overlapping them slightly. Pour any leftover custard over the bread, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or ideally overnight to let the flavors meld.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures that once you’re ready to bake, your casserole will cook evenly and develop that golden crust.
- Take the baking dish out of the refrigerator and sprinkle the sliced raw almonds over the soaked bread mixture, adding a delightful crunch to the top.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the tops of the bread are beautifully golden brown and crispy. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving to set the custard.
- Just before serving, dust the top generously with confectioners' sugar. If you have fresh berries on hand, scatter them on top for a burst of freshness and added sweetness.
Notes
Optional: Add a drizzle of maple syrup for extra indulgence! Preparing the casserole ahead of time is perfect for busy mornings.