Oven-Baked French Toast Casserole: A Weekend Brunch Delight
Are you looking for a delicious and easy brunch recipe that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than this oven-baked French toast casserole. This recipe is perfect for a lazy weekend morning or a special occasion. It's easy to prepare the night before, allowing you to simply bake and serve in the morning. This makes it ideal for busy week days too! Let's dive into the recipe!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking!
- 1 loaf (1 pound) challah bread, brioche, or Texas toast, cut into 1-inch cubes. (Stale bread works best, but fresh will do!)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness, but any kind will work)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, but adds extra richness)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
- Your favorite toppings! (See suggestions below)
Instructions for French Toast Perfection:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream (if using), sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Gently toss the bread cubes in the egg mixture, ensuring they're evenly coated. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the custard. This step is key for a moist and flavorful French toast!
- Pour the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, pressing down gently to ensure even distribution.
Bake & Serve:
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and set. The center should be cooked through. Check it after 40 minutes - ovens vary.
- Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Delicious Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Brunch:
- Fresh berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a mix!
- Whipped cream: A classic pairing for a touch of sweetness and lightness.
- Maple syrup: A must-have for that classic French toast flavor.
- Powdered sugar: A light dusting for an elegant finish.
- Chocolate chips: For a decadent twist.
- Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch.
Tips for the Best Oven-Baked French Toast:
- Use stale bread: Stale bread absorbs the custard better, resulting in a moister casserole.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can lead to a dry casserole. Start checking for doneness around 40 minutes.
- Customize it: Feel free to add other spices, extracts, or mix-ins like raisins or chocolate chips to the batter.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning for a stress-free brunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use different types of bread? Absolutely! Challah, brioche, and Texas toast work best, but you can experiment with other types of bread.
- How long can I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Enjoy your delicious oven-baked French toast casserole! Let me know in the comments how yours turns out! Happy baking!
