French Toast Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf (about 1 lb) French bread, preferably stale or day-old, cut into cubes
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Maple syrup, for serving
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
• Fresh berries, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Casserole:

   • Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Arrange the cubed French bread evenly in the prepared baking dish.

2. Make the Custard Mixture:

   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

3. Pour Over the Bread:

   • Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cubed French bread in the baking dish, making sure all the bread cubes are soaked in the mixture. Use a spoon or spatula to press down on the bread to ensure it's submerged.

4. Refrigerate Overnight:

   • Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight, allowing the bread to absorb the custard mixture.

5. Bake the Casserole:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats.
   • Once preheated, uncover the baking dish and bake the French toast casserole in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

6. Serve:

   • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
   • Slice the French toast casserole into squares or rectangles, then transfer to serving plates.
   • Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled over the top. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh berries.

7. Enjoy:

   • Enjoy this delicious and comforting overnight French toast casserole for breakfast or brunch with family and friends. It's perfect for special occasions or lazy weekend mornings when you want a stress-free breakfast option!

Note: You can customize this French toast casserole by adding toppings such as sliced bananas, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking. You can also prepare it the same day if you're short on time; just let the bread soak in the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking.