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Baked French Toast Casserole with crunchy golden brown crust topped with berries and nuts.
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5 from 179 votes

Baked French Toast Casserole

This baked french toast casserole is the perfect make ahead breakfast or brunch! It's made with brioche, challah or french bread, soaked overnight, and baked in the oven. Flavored with cinnamon and topped with blueberries for an easy brunch!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Servings: 12
Calories: 328kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf sliced bread use brioche, challah or French; 18oz or 511g
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk use any kind of milk
  • ⅓ cup half and half
  • ⅓ cup sugar, plus 2 Tablespoons (divided)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • pinch of salt

Toppings

  • 1 cup nuts walnuts, pecans, almonds, hazelnuts
  • 3 cups berries
  • maple syrup
  • powdered sugar

Instructions

  • Custard base: In a large bowl, add the eggs, milk, half and half, ⅓ cup sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk it together until well combined.
  • Dip bread: Dip each bread slice into the custard base then lay it flat in your casserole dish. Continue laying all slices so they overlap and fit.
  • Pour in custard base: Pour the remaining custard base on top and cover with foil. Let it soak refrigerated for 15 minutes or overnight for best results.
    Make sure the bread has absorbed enough of the custard base before baking. Spoon remaining liquid on top for better absorption prior to baking.
  • Top with sugar: Right before baking, top with 2 to 3 tablespoons of sugar to create a crunchy, golden brown caramelized crust.
  • Bake: Cover with foil and bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 25 minutes on the middle rack.
  • Remove foil: To get a golden brown and crispy crust, remove the foil and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes. You should see the sugar topping bubble and caramelize. Loosely cover any dark areas with foil to prevent burning. Turn on the convection fan the last 10 minutes if available.
  • Serve: To serve, top with berries, maple syrup, and powdered sugar. Cut out slices and enjoy!

Video

Notes

The baking pan I used measured 9 x 13 inches.
  • Leftovers - Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating - Reheat in the toaster oven or microwave.
  • Make ahead option - Soak the bread overnight and bake the next morning. It makes for an easy and delicious holiday breakfast!

Nutrition

Calories: 328kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 97mg | Sodium: 352mg | Potassium: 299mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 257IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 162mg | Iron: 3mg