French toast casserole is a delicious make-ahead breakfast that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Its rich, custardy texture combined with a crispy top makes it a favorite for brunch gatherings, potlucks, or family celebrations. This recipe is designed to serve 20 people, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied with minimal morning effort.
Ingredients
- 2 large baguettes or 2.5 pounds of day-old bread, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 12 large eggs
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup brown sugar (for topping)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
- Powdered sugar and maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick pieces. Arrange the bread in a large greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a comparable casserole dish, overlapping slightly to fit all pieces. For easier slicing, use slightly stale bread, which absorbs the custard better.
- Make the custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt until well combined.
- Combine bread and custard: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, making sure all pieces are soaked. Gently press down the bread with a spatula or your hands to help it absorb the liquid. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the oven: About 30 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven heats.
- Make the topping: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and melted butter. Spread this mixture evenly over the soaked bread. Optionally, sprinkle additional cinnamon or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes after baking. Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar and accompanied by maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream as desired.
Tips
- Substitutions: Use brioche or challah bread for a richer flavor. For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut milk and dairy-free butter or oil.
- Storage: Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals.
- Prevent sogginess: Avoid over-soaking the bread. Let the custard soak in just enough to saturate, but not so much that it becomes mushy.
- Extra crunch: For a crispy topping, sprinkle with chopped nuts or granola before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this French toast casserole with a drizzle of pure maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with a side of crispy bacon or sausage links for a hearty brunch. For a lighter option, serve with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit on the side.
Variations
For a different flavor profile, try adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard mixture. Incorporate sliced bananas, blueberries, or chopped apples into the layers before baking. You can also swirl in cream cheese or mascarpone for a richer, more decadent version. To make it festive, sprinkle with holiday spices like cloves or pumpkin pie spice during the custard preparation.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover French toast casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the top is crispy. Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, but note that the texture may be softer than freshly baked. For best results, reheat the entire casserole covered with foil to retain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, this casserole benefits from overnight refrigeration. After assembling the bread and custard, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the flavors and makes morning prep a breeze.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Once cooled, cut the casserole into individual servings, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with additional milk (preferably whole milk) or use half-and-half to maintain richness. Keep in mind that reducing the fat content slightly may slightly alter the custard’s richness but will still produce delicious results.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread, such as a gluten-free baguette or sliced bread. Be sure to check all added ingredients, like vanilla extract or spices, for gluten contamination. The custard ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but the bread choice is key.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the casserole overnight?
Refrigeration helps the bread absorb the custard fully, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dish. While you can bake it sooner, the texture may be less optimal. For best results, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
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