Description
This French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast or brunch dish featuring day-old French bread soaked in a rich custard of eggs, milk, cream, and spices. Baked to perfection with a crunchy pecan topping and a drizzle of melted butter, it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that can be prepared ahead and baked fresh in the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf of day-old French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Toppings
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Dish – Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly and evenly spread the cubed French bread inside to form a single layer.
- Mix the Custard – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pure vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Soak the Bread – Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, gently pressing down so that the bread absorbs the liquid fully. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow flavors to meld and bread to soften.
- Preheat & Assemble – About 30 minutes before baking, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. Just before baking, sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the soaked bread, then drizzle the melted butter on top.
- Bake – Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set in the center when gently shaken.
- Serve – Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness and flavor. Enjoy a comforting, hearty breakfast!
Notes
- Using day-old French bread helps the bread absorb the custard better without becoming too soggy.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute with your favorite nut or seed.
- Soaking the bread overnight enhances flavor and texture, but minimum 4 hours is sufficient.
- Maple syrup adds classic sweetness but can be substituted with honey or fruit compote.
- Make sure to grease the baking dish well to prevent sticking.
