Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe

Looking for a quick, cozy, and indulgent breakfast or brunch idea? The Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe is a must-try! This dish combines the comforting flavors of French toast with the ease of a casserole, making it perfect for a crowd or a lazy weekend morning. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday breakfast or a regular weekend brunch, this casserole will impress everyone at the table.

What makes this French toast casserole so special is its ability to be prepared in advance. You can prep the casserole the night before, then simply bake it in the morning for a warm, gooey breakfast without all the fuss. The rich and custardy texture, paired with a delicious cinnamon and vanilla flavor, makes each bite a comfort-filled experience. This recipe is not only easy but also versatile, allowing you to adjust ingredients to fit your preferences. From a sweet, fruity topping to a sprinkle of powdered sugar, the variations are endless.

What Makes French Toast Casserole Recipe So Special?

This Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe stands out because of its perfect balance of crispy edges and soft, custardy center. It’s a dish that offers all the flavors of traditional French toast but with a fraction of the effort! You can make it the night before, which saves time in the morning, and then simply pop it in the oven for a hot, satisfying meal.

Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

• Effortless Preparation: Make it ahead of time, and bake it in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
• Versatile Toppings: Top with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream for an extra treat.
• Family-Friendly: Perfect for kids and adults alike, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and satisfying.

My First Experience with French Toast Casserole Recipe and How I Found It

I first tried the Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole at a friend’s brunch party. The aroma of cinnamon and vanilla filled the room as it baked, and I was immediately hooked. Once I tasted the first bite, I knew I had to try making it myself. The beauty of this casserole lies in how simple yet flavorful it is. I found the recipe online, and after making it a few times, it became my go-to for special occasions or when I want to treat my family to a delicious, fuss-free breakfast.

Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe

Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe is a must-try! This dish combines the comforting flavors of French toast with the ease of a casserole, making it perfect for a crowd or a lazy weekend morning. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 44 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife
• Plastic wrap
• Oven
• Serving plates

Ingredients

  

• 1 loaf of bread preferably day-old or slightly stale, such as brioche, challah, or French bread
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted, for greasing the dish
• Powdered sugar for dusting, optional
• Maple syrup for serving, optional
• Fresh berries or your choice of fruit optional, for topping
• Whipped cream optional, for serving
• Nuts such as chopped pecans or walnuts, optional, for added crunch

Instructions

 

Step 01: Prepare the Bread

• Start by cutting the loaf of bread into 1-inch cubes. If the bread is fresh, it’s best to leave it out for a few hours or overnight to dry out a little—stale bread works best for this recipe as it absorbs the custard mixture better. Brioche, challah, or French bread are excellent choices for a rich and soft texture. If you don’t have stale bread, lightly toast the cubes in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until they’re just a little crisp.

Step 02: Make the Egg Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Make sure the mixture is smooth and fully combined. The eggs provide the custardy texture, while the vanilla and cinnamon bring out the flavor, making this the perfect base for your casserole.

Step 03: Combine Ingredients

• Add the prepared bread cubes to the egg mixture and gently stir to coat them evenly. Be sure the bread soaks up the custard mixture, but don’t over-stir to avoid breaking the bread into mush. Let the bread sit in the mixture for about 5 minutes to absorb the custard, which will help create that delicious, custardy texture when baked.

Step 04: Arrange in Baking Dish

• Once the bread cubes are soaked with the custard, transfer them into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread them out evenly to ensure that every piece of bread is submerged in the egg mixture. If you prefer a more rustic look, you can gently press the bread into the dish so it fits snugly.

Step 05: Chill (Optional)

• If you have time, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. This step is optional but highly recommended. Allowing the casserole to chill gives the bread even more time to soak up the custard, resulting in a richer texture. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and bake the casserole right away.

Step 06: Bake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy. The center should be set, and a toothpick inserted should come out clean. Keep an eye on it while baking to avoid over-baking.

Step 07: Add Topping

• Once the casserole is baked, remove it from the oven. You can add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a little sweetness and presentation. If desired, top with fresh berries, whipped cream, or your favorite syrup. The added toppings not only enhance the flavor but also give it a delightful visual appeal.

Step 08: Serve

• Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm. This dish is perfect on its own or paired with maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. It’s ideal for a brunch gathering or a comforting breakfast to start your day.

Notes

• Bread Selection: For best results, use a stale or day-old bread. The bread soaks up the custard mixture better and gives the casserole its signature texture. French bread, brioche, or challah work especially well.
• Overnight Option: If you’re short on time in the morning, you can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes baking in the morning a breeze.
• Toppings: You can customize your casserole with a variety of toppings. Fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar are great options. For a more decadent touch, drizzle with maple syrup before serving.
• Make Ahead Tips: This recipe is perfect for holiday mornings or brunch parties, as you can easily prepare it ahead of time and bake it when needed. Simply cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Looking for a refreshing and fruity side to complement the richness of this casserole? Our Better Than Sex Fruit Salad Recipe is the perfect choice! The sweetness and tang of the fruit salad offer a fresh contrast to the warm, custardy French toast casserole. Whether you serve it alongside or as a topping, the fruit salad will elevate your brunch experience and add a burst of vibrant flavors. You can check out the Better Than Sex Fruit Salad Recipe here for an unforgettable pairing.

Tips for Making Perfect Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole

• Use Stale or Slightly Dry Bread: Fresh bread tends to get too soggy when soaked. To get the best texture, use day-old or slightly dried-out bread, which soaks up the custard mixture more effectively.
• Chill Overnight for Extra Flavor: While you can bake the casserole immediately, allowing it to sit in the fridge overnight lets the bread absorb the custard even more, leading to a richer, more flavorful dish.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the bread and custard mixture, stir gently to coat. Overmixing can cause the bread to break down too much, making the casserole mushy.
• Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your casserole while baking. You want a golden, crispy top with a set custard center. If the edges get too dark, you can cover it with aluminum foil toward the end of baking.
• Top with Fresh Fruit or Syrup: A drizzle of maple syrup or fresh fruit can take your casserole to the next level. Consider adding whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to warm through.
• Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking. After assembling it, cover the dish with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. To bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
• Reheat with Care: When reheating, avoid overcooking the casserole to prevent it from becoming dry. If reheating in the oven, cover it with foil to keep it moist.

Serving Tips

• Serve Hot: For the best taste and texture, serve the casserole while it’s still warm. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert.
• Add Toppings: A sprinkle of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a handful of fresh berries can elevate the dish and add extra flavor.
• Serve with Sides: You can pair it with scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage for a well-rounded breakfast or brunch.

What To Serve with Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole

This casserole is rich and filling on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:

• Fresh Fruit: Berries, bananas, or a citrus fruit salad can balance the richness of the casserole.
• Scrambled Eggs: Light and fluffy eggs provide a savory contrast to the sweet casserole.
• Bacon or Sausage: For a protein-packed addition, bacon or sausage are great options.
• Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds a creamy, tangy touch that complements the sweetness of the casserole.

Nutrition, Calories, Facts Table

Conclusion!

The Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole is an easy, delicious, and comforting breakfast that everyone will love. Its custardy texture and warm cinnamon flavor make it a perfect addition to your weekend breakfast or brunch table. Whether you make it the night before or bake it fresh, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Top it with fresh berries, syrup, or whipped cream for an even more indulgent treat!

FAQs

Can I use regular bread for this casserole?

While day-old or stale bread works best, you can use fresh bread if needed. Just toast it lightly to dry it out before using it in the recipe.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the bread to soak up more custard for a richer flavor.

Can I make a smaller batch?

Absolutely! You can halve the ingredients and bake it in a smaller dish, such as an 8×8-inch baking dish.

Can I freeze the Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then bake it directly from frozen (you may need to add extra baking time).

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.