Imagine waking up to a heavenly aroma of cinnamon, sweet vanilla, and freshly baked goodness that transforms your ordinary morning into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Coffee Cake French Toast Casserole isn't just a breakfast dish – it's a mouthwatering miracle that will make your family leap out of bed and rush to the breakfast table. Combining the best of French toast and coffee cake in one irresistible casserole, this recipe promises to elevate your breakfast game from mundane to magical with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cut the loaf of bread into 1-inch cubes. Spread the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform layer.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, white sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until thoroughly combined and smooth.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring that all bread pieces are evenly saturated. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid.
- For the crumb topping, combine brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and melted butter in a separate bowl. Mix until it forms a crumbly texture. If using, add chopped nuts and mix well.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the soaked bread cubes, covering the entire surface.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve warm, optionally garnished with additional cinnamon, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Tips
- Bread Selection Matters: Use day-old bread or slightly stale bread for the best texture. Brioche, challah, or French bread work wonderfully and absorb the egg mixture more effectively.
- Even Saturation is Key: When pouring the egg mixture, ensure every bread cube gets evenly coated. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid thoroughly.
- Crumb Topping Technique: For extra crunchiness, make sure your crumb topping is truly crumbly. If it seems too wet, add a bit more flour to achieve the perfect texture.
- Customize Your Casserole: Feel free to experiment with mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruits, or different types of nuts to make the recipe your own.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this casserole the night before and refrigerate. Simply take it out 30 minutes before baking to come to room temperature.
- Serving Suggestions: For an extra indulgent touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a generous drizzle of warm maple syrup.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 160mg
