Description
This make-ahead French Toast Casserole is a delicious and convenient freezer breakfast that combines soft bread cubes with a sweet cinnamon-egg mixture, perfect for busy mornings or holiday brunches.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread, cubed
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup half and half
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup butter (for topping)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
- Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Place the cubed French bread evenly in the dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, half and half, sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down lightly to ensure all bread is coated.
- In a small bowl, mix the topping ingredients: melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Spread the topping mixture over the casserole.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and freeze or refrigerate overnight.
- When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Serve with maple syrup if desired.
Notes
- Use stale or day-old bread for best results as it absorbs the custard better.
- This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- You can substitute the French bread with brioche or challah for a richer texture.
- Top with fresh fruit or nuts after baking for added flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
