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French Toast Casserole

French Toast Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, French Toast Casserole combines rich, buttery bread with warm spices for a deliciously satisfying brunch. This easy, make-ahead dish is perfect for gatherings and will leave everyone craving more. Serve it fresh from the oven with a drizzle of maple syrup and enjoy the warm, cozy flavors tonight!
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Unsalted butter or coconut oil, for the pan
  • 1 loaf challah bread, about 1½ pounds, 1 or 2 days old, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 5 large eggs
  • 1½ cups milk
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • Maple syrup, for serving
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or coconut oil, melted
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • ½ cup chopped pecans

Equipment

  • 9x13 Baking Dish
  • Mixing Bowls

Method
 

  1. Start by greasing a 9x13-inch or similar baking dish with unsalted butter or coconut oil. This ensures that your casserole won’t stick to the dish, allowing for easy serving later on. Make sure you cover the entire surface evenly.
  2. Next, place the cubes of challah bread into the greased baking dish. Spread them out evenly; it’s important to have each piece soak in the custard later. I like to create a checkerboard pattern for a beautiful presentation.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sea salt. Make sure everything is well combined; you want a smooth mixture that will coat the bread evenly.
  4. Once your custard mixture is ready, pour it evenly over the bread cubes. Use a spatula to gently press down on the bread, ensuring it absorbs the custard. Allow it to soak—this is crucial for that luscious, custardy texture.
  5. If you’re preparing this casserole ahead of time, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. If not, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soak up the flavors.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the casserole evenly, creating a golden top while keeping the inside fluffy.
  7. While the oven is heating, it’s time to prepare the topping. Drizzle the casserole with melted unsalted butter or coconut oil. Then, sprinkle with the extra brown sugar and chopped pecans. This will create a delightful caramelized crust on top.
  8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. This helps to trap steam, ensuring the casserole cooks through without drying out.
  9. After 35 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 20 minutes, or until the topping is browned and the egg mixture has mostly set. Keep an eye on it; you want a beautiful golden color on top.
  10. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Let it stand for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the casserole to set up a bit more, making it easier to slice.
  11. Finally, serve warm, drizzled with maple syrup. Watch as everyone digs into this comforting delight, savoring every bite!

Notes

Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.