Imagine waking up to the enticing aroma of freshly baked Mascarpone Stuffed Sourdough French Toast Casserole wafting through your kitchen—a dish that promises to elevate your breakfast game to new heights! This delightful American classic combines the tangy richness of sourdough bread with the creamy decadence of mascarpone cheese, creating a luscious, custard-soaked treat that’s perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts. With just a bit of prep and a little patience, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser that serves eight, ensuring everyone leaves the table with a smile. Ready to impress your loved ones? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf sourdough bread, cubed
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Fresh berries for serving
Instructions
- Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by generously greasing it with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Cut the sourdough bread into 1-inch cubes and spread half of the cubes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy. Dollop small spoonfuls of mascarpone cheese across the bread cubes, creating an even distribution.
- Layer the remaining bread cubes over the mascarpone to create a second layer, covering the cheese completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined and smooth.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring that all bread is evenly saturated. Press down gently with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.
- Bake the covered casserole for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh berries and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, use day-old sourdough bread. It holds up better when soaked in the custard mixture and adds a delightful tang.
- Let It Soak: Allowing the casserole to sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or overnight) is crucial. This soaking time ensures that the bread absorbs all the delicious flavors and custard, resulting in a creamy, rich dish.
- Customize Your Toppings: While fresh berries are a fantastic garnish, feel free to get creative! Consider adding sliced bananas, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your casserole while it bakes. You want a golden-brown top and a set center—if it's browning too quickly, cover it with foil.
- Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed warm from the oven. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven to maintain that lovely texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 210mg
