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Easy Make-Ahead Baked French Toast Casserole

A close-up of a thick slice of baked french toast with a rich, gooey cinnamon streusel topping, served on a white plate.
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Prepare this simple baked French toast casserole the night before for a stress-free, crowd-pleasing breakfast. It bakes up custardy in the center with crispy edges, making it perfect for weekend brunch or holiday mornings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (about 1 pound) brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • For the Streusel Topping:
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. This creates the rich custard base.
  3. Pour the custard mixture slowly and evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid.
  4. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is key for a custardy center.
  5. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  6. Prepare the streusel topping: In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  7. Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the bread.
  8. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set (a knife inserted near the center comes out clean).
  9. Let the baked French toast casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Using brioche or challah bread gives you the best texture for this oven baked French toast.
  • If you are short on time, you can bake this recipe immediately after soaking, but allow an extra 10 minutes of baking time.
  • Serve with maple syrup or fresh berries for a complete holiday morning breakfast.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyjade.com/baked-french-toast-casserole-make-ahead-brunch/