Description
A decadent and comforting French Toast Casserole perfect for breakfast or brunch. This make-ahead dish features day-old French bread soaked in a rich custard of eggs, milk, cream, and warm spices, then baked until golden and topped with pecans and melted butter. Serve warm with maple syrup for a sweet start to any morning.
Ingredients
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
- 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 spread the cubed French bread evenly inside to form the base of your casserole.
- Mix the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until fully combined and smooth.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight to maximize flavor and texture.
- Preheat & Assemble: Remove the bread casserole from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature while you preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once warmed, sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top and drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. The casserole should develop a golden brown crust on top and the center should be set and no longer jiggly when gently shaken.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly after baking, then serve warm with a generous drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy this deliciously rich and moist breakfast treat.
Notes
- Using day-old or slightly stale bread helps absorb the custard better without becoming too soggy.
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or substitute with dried fruit if desired.
- This casserole can be prepared a day in advance—soaking overnight improves the flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To add extra flavor, sprinkle additional cinnamon or powdered sugar on top before serving.
