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Make-Ahead Cinnamon Streusel Baked French Toast Casserole

A close-up, tempting slice of baked french toast featuring a thick, gooey cinnamon-sugar topping.
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Wake up to a stress-free morning with this easy baked French toast casserole. Prep it the night before for a crowd-pleasing breakfast that features crispy edges and a soft, custardy center, topped with a sweet cinnamon streusel.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (about 1 pound) thick-cut bread like brioche or challah, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • For the Streusel Topping:
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the bread cubes in an even layer in the prepared dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.
  3. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press the bread down to help it absorb the liquid.
  4. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is key for a custardy center.
  5. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  6. Prepare the streusel topping: In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  7. Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the soaked bread.
  8. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and the center is set (a knife inserted near the center comes out clean).
  9. Let the baked French toast cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Using day-old bread works best as it absorbs the custard without becoming too mushy.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute half the milk with half-and-half.
  • Serve warm with maple syrup or fresh berries for a complete holiday morning breakfast.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://sundayflavor.com/baked-french-toast-casserole-recipe/