Description
This Easy French Toast Bake is a cozy, make-ahead breakfast casserole featuring custardy bread, warm cinnamon, and a buttery crumb topping. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a relaxing weekend morning.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread (about 14–16 ounces), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
Instructions
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add the cubed French bread in an even layer.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, making sure all cubes are soaked.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt for the topping. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture is crumbly.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight or for at least 3 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 45–55 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Let cool slightly before serving with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries.
Notes
- Use brioche or challah for a richer flavor.
- Layer in fruit like bananas or blueberries for a fruity twist.
- Add nuts to the topping for extra crunch.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole dish in the oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of casserole)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
