Ingredients
For the Casserole Base
- ½ loaf French bread (about 8 oz), cut into cubes
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
For the Custard Mixture
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon, divided
Toppings
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Powdered sugar for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter a 13x9 inch baking pan thoroughly and set it aside to prepare for the casserole.
- Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once fully melted, stir in 1 cup of packed brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is dissolved. Pour this warm, caramel-like mixture evenly into the bottom of the buttered baking pan.
- Assemble the Bread Layer: Evenly spread the cubed French bread over the brown sugar and butter layer in the pan, ensuring all pieces are well distributed.
- Make the Custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Pour this egg mixture slowly over the bread cubes, making sure each piece absorbs the custard to soak well.
- Add Final Touches: Sprinkle the remaining 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar evenly over the custard-soaked bread layer for additional flavor and sweetness.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the custard is set.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and optionally dust the top with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful French Toast Casserole!
Notes
- Use day-old bread for better texture as it absorbs the custard more effectively.
- For a richer flavor, consider using half-and-half or cream instead of milk.
- Adding chopped nuts or fresh berries on top before baking can add texture and flavor variations.
- Make the casserole the night before and refrigerate overnight to let the bread soak fully for an even more moist result.
- Adjust cinnamon and sugar to taste depending on your preference for sweetness and spice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American