Description
A delicious and easy make-ahead French toast casserole with a soft, custard-like center and a crispy brown sugar topping. Perfect for brunch and holidays!
Ingredients
Scale
-
For the French Toast Base:
- 1 loaf of French bread (cubed)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
-
For the Crumb Topping:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup flour
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup cold butter (cubed)
Instructions
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the bread cubes evenly.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread, pressing gently to soak. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- The next day, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a bowl, then cut in cold butter to create a crumbly topping.
- Sprinkle the topping over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, until golden and set.
- Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use slightly stale bread for better absorption.
- Add mix-ins like berries, nuts, or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- Serve with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American