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Amazing French Toast Casserole: 1 Stress-Free Breakfast

A close-up of a golden-brown slice of French toast casserole being drizzled with syrup.

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A simple, make-ahead French toast casserole perfect for holidays and brunches, offering a warm, indulgent breakfast with minimal morning effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (1 pound) challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Arrange bread cubes in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, 1/2 cup of the sugar, 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
  3. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are moistened. Press down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid.
  4. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  6. In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until combined.
  7. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
  8. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use a combination of whole milk and half-and-half.
  • If you don’t have challah or brioche, French bread or Italian bread also works well.
  • Serve with your favorite syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.

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