Looking for a cozy breakfast dish that feels like a warm hug? This Cinnamon Maple French Toast Casserole is your answer. It's perfect for lazy weekend mornings or holiday gatherings when you want something special without too much fuss.
Challah bread is the star of the show, offering a soft, airy texture that soaks up the custard beautifully. Eggs make up the custard base and help bind everything together. Whole milk and heavy cream add richness and make the casserole wonderfully creamy. Maple syrup infuses natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Brown sugar enhances the sweetness with a touch of molasses. Vanilla extract and cinnamon provide warm, comforting notes, while a hint of nutmeg adds complexity. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness. Pecans bring a crunchy contrast, and a drizzle of melted butter on top ensures a golden finish. Finally, a dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch to the finished dish.
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit like mixed berries or sliced bananas. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you're serving it as a dessert. For a savory twist, serve with crispy bacon or breakfast sausages.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, get your 9x13-inch baking dish ready with a bit of grease to prevent sticking. Now, take your loaf of challah bread and cut it into cubes. Spread these evenly in your baking dish, ensuring a good foundation for the custard.
In a large mixing bowl, crack open the six eggs and give them a good whisk until they're well combined. Add in the milk, cream, and maple syrup, whisking until smooth. Then, stir in the brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until everything is mixed thoroughly.
Pour this creamy egg mixture over the bread cubes in the dish. Use a spatula to gently press down on the bread, checking that all pieces soak up the custard. This ensures you won't have any dry spots.
Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top, distributing them evenly for that perfect crunch in every bite. Drizzle the melted butter across the surface – this will help the casserole brown beautifully.
Cover the dish with foil and place it in your preheated oven. Let it bake for 30 minutes covered, then remove the foil and allow it to bake for another 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s golden brown and set.
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to serve and allows the flavors to meld. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for that final sweet flourish.
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