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Easy Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe for a Cozy Breakfast Delight

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A warm and comforting French toast casserole that is quick to prepare and perfect for cozy mornings. Made with simple ingredients and a custardy texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser for weekend breakfasts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups cubed day-old bread (thick-cut challah, brioche, or sturdy white bread)
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk (or 2% or almond milk)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream (optional, can replace with extra milk)
  • 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
  • 1/3 cup (70 g) brown sugar (for topping)
  • Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting when serving)

Instructions

  1. Cube about 8 cups (roughly 450 g) of day-old bread into 1-inch pieces. Tear slightly by hand for rustic texture. Place evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups whole milk, and 1/2 cup heavy cream until smooth. Stir in 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt.
  3. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing lightly to help the bread soak up the liquid. Let sit for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate overnight for best results.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  5. In a small bowl, mix 1/3 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and a pinch of extra cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the soaked bread in the casserole dish.
  6. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes uncovered, until the top is golden and crisp and custard is set.
  7. Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm with maple syrup or fresh fruit.

Notes

For best texture, soak bread overnight or at least a few hours. Use day-old bread to avoid sogginess. Cover casserole during initial baking to trap steam and set custard gently. Remove foil to crisp topping. Adjust milk and cream for richness. Use nonstick spray or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Variations include adding berries, nuts, or using gluten-free/dairy-free substitutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon, french toast casserole, breakfast, easy recipe, cozy breakfast, custard, brunch, cinnamon sugar topping

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/easy-cinnamon-french-toast-casserole-recipe-for-a-cozy-breakfast-delight/