Description
A delightful make-ahead French Toast Casserole that combines bread and cinnamon rolls layered with a creamy custard, perfect for brunch gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf brioche, challah, or French bread (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls, quartered
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare Bread & Dish: If your bread isn’t cubed, cut into 1-inch pieces and let dry slightly. Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with melted butter and arrange the bread cubes evenly.
- Make Custard 1: Whisk together 6 eggs, 2 cups of whole milk, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tbsp of vanilla extract, 1 tsp of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp of salt. Pour custard over bread, pressing gently to soak.
- Add Cinnamon Rolls & Custard 2: Scatter quartered cinnamon rolls on top. In a separate bowl, whisk together 5 eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 tsp of vanilla extract, and 1 tsp of ground cinnamon; pour over bread and cinnamon rolls.
- Chill Overnight: Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole covered loosely with aluminum foil for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes until golden brown.
- Rest & Serve: Let sit for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh berries.
Notes
Use day-old bread for the best absorption. Add fresh fruits or nuts for extra flavor. Can be made vegan or low-carb with substitutions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 200mg