Q1: Can I make French Toast Casserole without letting it sit overnight?

Yes, while overnight soaking develops deeper flavors, you can soak it for just 1 hour if you're short on time. Ensure the bread is fully saturated with the custard.

Q2: What’s the best bread to use for French Toast Casserole?

French bread is traditional, but you can also use brioche, challah, or any dense, slightly stale bread. These types absorb the custard well without falling apart.

Q3: How do I know when the casserole is fully baked?

The casserole is ready when the top is golden brown and the center barely jiggles when you gently shake the dish. A knife inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.

Q4: Can I freeze French Toast Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it after baking. Allow it to cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Easy French Toast Casserole

Name: Easy French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients: 1 loaf French bread, cut into cubes; 8 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream

Description

A beginner-friendly Easy French Toast Casserole, perfect for a make-ahead breakfast or brunch, offering a rich, creamy texture with a golden crisp top.

Ingredients

Scale

1 loaf French bread, cut into cubes
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream

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Instructions

Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and evenly distribute the cubed French bread inside.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid.
Cover with foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole covered for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 25–30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving with your favorite toppings.

Notes

If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during baking.
Use slightly stale bread for best absorption.
Substitute brioche or challah for a richer version.
Make it dairy-free by using plant-based milk and cream alternatives.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 54g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 185mg