Description
This comforting French Toast Casserole is an easy make-ahead breakfast or brunch dish featuring cubes of day-old French bread soaked in a rich custard of eggs, milk, cream, and warm spices. Topped with toasted pecans and butter, then baked to golden perfection, it’s perfect served with a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet and satisfying start to your day.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf of day-old French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Dish – Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the bread cubes evenly inside to form the casserole base.
- Mix the Custard – In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.
- Soak the Bread – Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure all pieces absorb the liquid. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight for best flavor and texture.
- Preheat & Assemble – Remove the casserole from the refrigerator; let it sit at room temperature while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly on top of the soaked bread and drizzle melted butter over the pecans.
- Bake – Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the custard center is fully set.
- Serve – Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup and enjoy warm for a delicious breakfast or brunch treat.
Notes
- Using day-old French bread helps the custard soak properly without becoming too mushy.
- The pecans are optional but add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to the dish.
- Soaking overnight enhances flavor and texture, but minimum 4 hours is acceptable if short on time.
- If you prefer, substitute maple syrup with honey or fruit compote for serving.
- You can prepare the casserole up to the soaking step the night before to save morning prep time.
