Homemade French Toast Casserole Recipe
French toast casserole is a true comfort dish that makes breakfast special. It combines cinnamon and vanilla for a luxurious taste. The mix of cubed bread and a rich custard, topped with streusel, offers a delightful texture.This dish is great for special days or lazy mornings. You can prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning. The smell of brown sugar and melted butter will make your kitchen smell amazing.
Ingredients
- For the Casserole:
- 14 oz Challah bread torn into chunks
- 7 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1½ teaspoons cinnamon
- For the Streusel Topping:
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2¼ teaspoons cinnamon
- 8 tablespoons cold butter cut into small pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Tear a 14 oz loaf of Challah bread into chunks and place them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread chunks, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors blend.
- Prepare the Streusel Topping: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F. In a bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Bake the Casserole: Sprinkle the streusel topping over the soaked bread. Bake for about 50 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy, and the inside is soft and custardy.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with fresh fruit or maple syrup for extra flavor.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Instructions: Prepare the casserole the night before. Refrigerate overnight and bake in the morning. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
- Storage & Reheating: Leftovers stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven or microwave single servings. Freeze portions for up to 3 months.
- Serving Suggestions: Enhance with fresh berries, powdered sugar, or warm maple syrup. For a richer taste, add a dollop of whipped cream.
- Best Bread Choice: Use day-old French bread, sourdough, or Challah for the best texture. These absorb the custard without getting too soggy.
- Prevent Sogginess: Use dry bread, avoid over-soaking, and bake until the top is golden and the center is set but slightly jiggly.