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Cozy Cinnamon Swirl Baked French Toast Casserole

cinnamon swirl baked french toast casserole - featured image
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A warm and comforting baked French toast casserole with a cinnamon and brown sugar swirl, perfect for brunch or holidays. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients and delivers a gooey, golden crust every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups cubed brioche or challah bread (day-old preferred)
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 1/2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional toppings: maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, chopped nuts

Instructions

  1. Cut about 1 loaf of brioche or challah into roughly 1-inch cubes. If bread is fresh, toast cubes lightly at 300°F for about 10 minutes to dry them out.
  2. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon, and 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter until thick and spreadable. Set aside.
  3. Transfer bread cubes to a large bowl and drizzle the cinnamon swirl over them. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  4. In a separate large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 1/2 cups whole milk or half-and-half, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth.
  5. Pour the custard over the coated bread cubes. Fold gently to fully submerge the bread. Let soak at least 20 minutes at room temperature or cover and refrigerate overnight.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly butter or spray a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  7. Use a slotted spoon to transfer soaked bread cubes to the baking dish, leaving excess custard behind. Spread evenly and press down lightly.
  8. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until top is golden brown and custard is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
  9. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use day-old bread for best soaking results. Overnight soaking in the fridge enhances flavor and texture. Tent with foil if top browns too quickly. Optional toppings include maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or nuts. For dairy-free, substitute milk and butter accordingly. Can freeze leftovers up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon swirl, baked French toast casserole, brunch recipe, easy breakfast, cinnamon, brown sugar, custard, brioche, challah

Find it online: https://yumnode.com/cozy-cinnamon-swirl-baked-french-toast-casserole-easy-recipe-for-perfect-brunch/