Start your day with the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence by trying this French Toast Casserole recipe. Whether you’re planning a leisurely weekend breakfast or a make-ahead dish for a busy morning, this recipe checks all the boxes. With simple ingredients and an effortless preparation process, this French Toast Casserole recipe is designed to deliver rich, golden and flavourful bites every time. What makes it even more appealing is its versatility—you can customize the toppings and Flavors to suit your mood or occasion. No matter the season, this French Toast Casserole recipe brings warmth and a sense of home to your table. Get ready to create a breakfast masterpiece that you’ll want to make again and again.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 6 hours (overnight)
Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 2 slices of day-old bread (cut into cubes)
- 1/2 cup milk of choice (e.g., whole milk, almond milk, oat milk)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- A small pinch of salt
For the Topping:
- 1 tablespoon butter (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Optional: Chopped nuts (e.g. pecans, walnuts) or seeds for added crunch
Optional Toppings (for serving):
- Fresh fruits (e.g. berries, banana slices)
- Powdered sugar
- Additional maple syrup
- Whipped cream (dairy or non-dairy)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread Base:
- Place the bread cubes in a small greased casserole dish or an oven-safe bowl. Ensure the bread pieces are spread evenly but do not pack them down tightly.
2. Make the Custard Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt until fully combined. This will be your custard base.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring each piece is soaked. Gently press down on the bread with a fork or spoon to help it absorb the liquid.
3. Chill the Mixture:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the custard mixture completely, creating a rich and creamy texture.
4. Prepare the Topping:
- Before baking, prepare the crumble topping by mixing the butter, brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Add chopped nuts if desired for an extra crunch. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the soaked bread.
5. Bake the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes while the oven preheats.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center—it should come out clean.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Add your favourite toppings like fresh fruits, powdered sugar or an extra drizzle of maple syrup.
- Enjoy it warm for the best taste and texture.
Tips for Perfect French Toast Casserole:
1. Use Day-Old Bread:
- Slightly stale bread works best because it absorbs the custard without becoming too mushy. If your bread is fresh, lightly toast it in the oven before using.
2. Experiment with Bread Types:
- Brioche, challah or French bread are excellent options for a richer, more indulgent casserole. For a healthier twist, use whole-grain or gluten-free bread.
3. Add Extra Flavor:
- Enhance the flavor by adding a tablespoon of orange zest or a splash of flavored liqueur like Grand Marnier to the custard mixture.
4. Customize the Toppings:
- Mix and match toppings to suit your preferences. Try crushed granola for extra crunch or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
5. Make it Ahead:
- This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it fresh in the morning.
Flavor Variations:
1. Chocolate Lover’s Delight:
- Add a handful of chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the custard mixture for a decadent twist.
2. Berry Bliss:
- Layer fresh or frozen berries between the bread cubes before pouring the custard. Blueberries, raspberries or sliced strawberries work well.
3. Apple Cinnamon:
- Add diced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a comforting autumn-inspired flavor.
4. Savory Twist:
- Skip the sweetener and vanilla, and add shredded cheese, cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for a savory breakfast casserole.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Protein Boost: Adding an extra egg or topping with Greek yogurt can increase the protein content.
- Fiber-Rich: Incorporate whole-grain bread and fresh fruits for added fiber.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute dairy milk with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk and use coconut oil instead of butter.