Description
This delicious Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is a perfect make-ahead breakfast or brunch dish, combining soft French bread soaked in a creamy cinnamon-vanilla egg mixture, baked to golden perfection with a sweet buttery brown sugar base and a delightful cinnamon topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- ½ loaf French bread (about 8 oz), cut into cubes
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
Egg Mixture
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Topping
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Powdered sugar (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter a 13×9 inch baking pan thoroughly and set it aside to prepare for assembling the casserole.
- Prepare Sugar Mixture: Melt the ½ cup butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in 1 cup packed brown sugar until fully dissolved and smooth. Pour this warm sugar-butter mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the base layer of the casserole.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the cubed French bread evenly over the brown sugar and butter mixture in the baking pan, ensuring an even layer.
- Make Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together 6 eggs, 2 cups of milk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the pan, allowing it to soak into the bread.
- Bake: Sprinkle the top of the casserole with the remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 1 tablespoon brown sugar for extra flavor and a beautiful glaze. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and optionally dust with powdered sugar before serving. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting breakfast treat.
Notes
- For best results, use slightly stale French bread so it absorbs the custard better.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to set slightly before serving.
- Can be prepared the night before and refrigerated; bake in the morning for convenience.
- Optional toppings include fresh fruit, maple syrup, or whipped cream for added flavor.
