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Challah Bread French Toast Casserole
The Challah Bread French Toast Casserole is a warm, comforting breakfast dish that combines thick slices of challah bread with a spiced custard mixture, baked to golden perfection. This recipe allows you to prep everything the night before and bake it fresh in the morning, making it ideal for hosting or relaxing weekends. Topped with a drizzle of maple syrup and dusted with powdered sugar, it delivers all the flavors of classic French toast in a convenient casserole form.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Plastic wrap (for overnight refrigeration)
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 large loaf of challah bread cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10 cups)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Bread
- Begin by cutting the challah bread into 1-inch cubes and placing them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread the bread evenly across the dish.
Make the Custard
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Ensure the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Combine Bread and Custard
- Slowly pour the custard mixture over the challah bread cubes, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Lightly press the bread down into the custard to ensure it soaks in.
Chill Overnight
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, resulting in a soft and flavorful casserole.
Preheat the Oven
- In the morning (or after chilling), preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Add Butter and Bake
- Before baking, drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole. This will help the top become crispy and golden during baking.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. The center should be slightly soft but not liquidy.
Serve
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with warm maple syrup for a decadent breakfast treat.
Notes
Tips:
- Make it Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and refrigerated overnight. This makes it a perfect make-ahead breakfast for holidays, brunch parties, or busy mornings.
- Customization: Add fresh fruit, such as blueberries or raspberries, between the layers of bread for a fruity twist. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or almonds on top for added crunch.
- Freezing Instructions: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving Approx.):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg