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e That Will Change Your Mornings Forever Recipe

e That Will Change Your Mornings Forever Recipe

5.1 from 17 reviews

This French Toast Casserole is a delightful and easy-to-make breakfast dish that transforms your mornings with its rich custardy bread soaked in cinnamon vanilla goodness. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weekend brunch, it combines the soft texture of brioche or challah with warm spices and buttery richness for a comforting start to your day.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • 1 loaf brioche, challah, or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

Custard Mixture

  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Topping

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when your casserole is prepared.
  2. Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  3. Prepare the Bread: Spread the 1-inch cubes of brioche or challah evenly in the greased baking dish, distributing the bread pieces in a single layer.
  4. Mix Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups whole milk, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until the mixture is homogeneous and smooth.
  5. Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, gently pressing down the bread to help it absorb the liquid fully.
  6. Add Butter: Drizzle the 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter over the top of the soaked bread mixture for a rich flavor and golden crust.
  7. Rest the Casserole: Let the dish sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes, allowing the bread to fully soak up the custard.
  8. Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set and firm to the touch.
  9. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with your choice of maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries for extra sweetness and flavor.

Notes

  • Use day-old brioche, challah, or French bread for best texture as it soaks up custard better.
  • You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it to bake fresh in the morning.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk and butter with a vegan butter alternative.
  • Add nuts or dried fruit to the custard mixture for added texture and flavor.
  • Serve with powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream for garnish.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast casserole, breakfast casserole, French toast bake, brunch recipe, cinnamon French toast