Baked French Toast Casserole
A comforting baked French toast casserole with warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors, topped with praline goodness, perfect for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice French bread into 20 slices, each about 1 inch thick.
- Arrange the slices in a generously buttered 9 x 13-inch baking dish in two overlapping rows.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a dash of salt.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to absorb the custard.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the casserole is puffed and golden brown.
- Serve warm with praline topping or syrup as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brioche or challah bread instead of French bread. You can also substitute whole milk for the half and half for a lighter option. If you're short on time, skip the overnight soak and let the bread sit in the egg mixture for at least 30 minutes. Adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving can elevate the presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked French toast casserole warm, topped with the praline topping or maple syrup. Fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas make a delightful accompaniment. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of crispy bacon or sausages for a hearty breakfast. For dessert, consider serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked French Toast Casserole contains roughly 457 calories, with 5g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the night before and let it soak in the refrigerator overnight. Just bake it in the morning for a delicious, hassle-free breakfast.
What can I substitute for half and half?
You can use a combination of whole milk and heavy cream to replicate the creaminess of half and half. Alternatively, for a lighter version, use skim milk or almond milk, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when it is puffed up and golden brown on top. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean if it is fully cooked. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).