When I think of lazy Sunday mornings, the aroma of freshly baked French toast casserole wafts through my mind, instantly transporting me back to my childhood kitchen. My mother would whip up this delightful dish for family brunches, filling our home with warmth and laughter. It was a time when we gathered around the table, sharing stories and savoring every bite. This Baked French Toast Casserole has become my go-to recipe for easy brunches, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

What Makes It Special

This recipe stands out for several reasons:

• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it the night before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Customizable: Add your favorite fruits, nuts, or spices to make it your own.
• Feed a Crowd: Perfect for gatherings, this casserole serves multiple people without the fuss of individual servings.

Gather Your Ingredients

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8

• 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread, cut into cubes
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup maple syrup (for drizzling)
• Powdered sugar (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s Get Cooking!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture, gently folding to ensure all pieces are coated.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Cover with foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
6. When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
7. Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
8. Drizzle with maple syrup and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Helpful Hints & Variations

My Pro Tips:

• For a fruity twist, add sliced bananas or berries to the bread mixture.
• Try using different types of bread, like sourdough or whole grain, for a unique flavor.
• For a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.

Perfect Pairings

What to Serve With It:

• Crispy bacon or sausage links
• Fresh fruit salad
• A refreshing mimosa or coffee

FAQs

Kitchen Q&A:

• Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
• A: Yes! Assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. Just add extra baking time when cooking from frozen.

Final Thoughts

Why I Love This Recipe:

This Baked French Toast Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a way to create memories with loved ones. The joy of sharing a meal, the laughter around the table, and the comfort of home are all wrapped up in this recipe. I hope it brings as much joy to your brunch table as it has to mine.

Your Turn

Let’s Hear From You! I invite you to try this recipe, make it your own, and share your experiences. Did you add a special twist? I’d love to hear about it!