An Easier Take on Traditional French Toast!

Today I am sharing THE most highly requested breakfast and brunch meal amongst my family and friends… my French Toast Casserole! A perfect harmony of fluffy bread with hints of cinnamon and vanilla, this recipe easily combines everything you love about traditional French Toast into one pan of baked yumminess. I prepare this dish almost every time we have family in town… with the prep work done ahead of time, I’m able to spend more time with precious loved ones and less time cooking. Truly the perfect recipe for entertaining! I love topping each plate with strawberries and blueberries, a good bite full of French toast casserole with a sprinkle of berries… such a divine blend of summertime flavors! When preparing, I prefer to use brioche bread, but any soft bread will do the trick. With its effortless preparation and irresistible taste, this recipe is guaranteed to become a breakfast fan-favorite. Once you serve it, prepare to hear this meal requested frequently. Bon appétit!

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Delicious French Toast Casserole

Everything you love about French Toast packed into one baking dish! The perfect make-ahead holiday breakfast!

Servings 10 people

Author Chef Tiffany Blackmon

Equipment

• 13 x 9-inch casserole dish

Ingredients

• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup butter
• 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
• 6-8 cups brioche or challah bread, cut into cubes
• 6 eggs
• 1 ½ cups half and half
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 Tbsp cinnamon 
• ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar
• Maple syrup, optional 

Instructions

• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine brown sugar, butter, and corn syrup; microwave on HIGH for 45 to 55 seconds or until butter is melted and sugar is dissolved (or melt in a saucepan over medium-low heat). Stir well and pour into a baking dish coated with cooking spray. Arrange bread pieces evenly over butter mixture.
• In a large bowl, whisk eggs until beaten. Whisk in half and half and vanilla. Pour evenly over bread, pressing bread down until moistened.
• In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
• Uncover baking dish. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until set and golden brown. Sift confectioners’ sugar over top. Serve immediately.

Notes

Tiffy’s Tips

• This recipe calls for packed light brown sugar. This means firmly pressing the ingredient into the measuring cup to remove air pockets and fill it to the exact level.
• I love topping each slice with berries and a drizzle of maple syrup.
• Both challah and brioche are great breads for French toast and this recipe. They are enriched breads with a rich flavor and a soft, fluffy texture that becomes custard-like when cooked.
• This recipe freezes well. To reheat, just thaw and pop in the oven.
• This recipe is adjusted from my cookbook as I have tweaked through the years.