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Easy Make-Ahead Baked French Toast Casserole

A square slice of golden brown baked french toast topped with cinnamon sugar, served on a white plate.
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Prepare this comforting baked French toast casserole the night before for a stress-free, delicious brunch or family breakfast. It bakes up custardy inside with a golden top.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (about 1 pound) thick-cut bread like brioche or challah, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for greasing pan)
  • For Topping (Optional): 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. This creates your simple custard base.
  3. Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are saturated. Gently press the bread down with a spatula to help it absorb the custard.
  4. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the bread to fully soak up the custard.
  5. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap.
  6. If using the topping, mix the 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and nuts in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
  7. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and the center is set (no liquid remains when lightly poked).
  8. Let the baked French toast casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving warm with maple syrup and fresh fruit.

Notes

  • Using slightly stale or day-old bread works best for absorbing the custard without becoming too mushy.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute some of the milk with half-and-half or use brioche bread.
  • This recipe is excellent for feeding a crowd, making it a perfect holiday breakfast idea.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyfelix.com/baked-french-toast-casserole-easy-brunch/