Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
This Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is a delightful dish that transforms your breakfast or brunch into a special occasion. Bursting with creamy sweetness and topped with a crunchy brown sugar crumble, this casserole is perfect for gatherings. Prepare it the night before to make your mornings easier and more enjoyable. Whether you’re hosting family or friends, this recipe will surely impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This casserole can be assembled the night before, saving you time in the morning.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It serves up to 12 people, making it ideal for gatherings or brunch parties.
- Deliciously Decadent: The combination of cream cheese and a brown sugar topping creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will love.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with maple syrup or dusted with powdered sugar for an extra touch.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add fruits or nuts to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these essential tools before you start. Each tool plays a specific role in ensuring your casserole comes out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick spray
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Handheld or stand mixer
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Pastry blender or forks
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick spray: Prevents the casserole from sticking to the pan for easy serving.
- Mixer: Ensures the cream cheese is perfectly smooth, making it easy to spread on the bread.
- Baking pan: A sturdy 9×13-inch pan helps evenly cook your casserole, providing a consistent texture.
Ingredients
- 1 (12-14 ounce) loaf french bread, sourdough bread, or challah
- 8 ounces (226g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 Tablespoons (15g) confectioners’ sugar
- 3 teaspoons (15ml) pure vanilla extract, divided
- 8 large eggs
- 2 and 1/4 cups (540ml) whole milk
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2/3 cup (133g) packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup (69g) packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup (41g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 Tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- optional: maple syrup and/or confectioners’ sugar for topping
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. Slice the bread into cubes about 1 inch in size. Spread half of these cubes into the prepared baking pan.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment:
1. Beat the room temperature cream cheese on medium-high speed until smooth.
2. Add confectioners’ sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the bread cubes.
4. Layer the remaining bread cubes on top, ensuring some cream cheese remains exposed for presentation.
Step 3: Combine Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
1. The eggs, milk, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and remaining vanilla extract until no lumps remain.
2. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered bread and cream cheese.
Step 4: Chill Overnight
Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or up to overnight for best results.
Step 5: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Remove your casserole from the refrigerator while waiting for it to heat up.
Step 6: Prepare Topping
In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon.
2. Cut in cold cubed butter using a pastry blender or two forks until crumbly.
3. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the soaked bread mixture.
Step 7: Bake
Bake uncovered for about 45-55 minutes until golden brown on top. Adjust baking time according to how soft you prefer it.
Step 8: Serve
Drizzle with optional maple syrup or dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving warm!
Enjoy this delicious Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole, perfect for any breakfast gathering!
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is a delightful dish perfect for any brunch or breakfast gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.
Classic Toppings
- Maple Syrup – Drizzle warm maple syrup over each serving for a sweet and rich flavor.
- Fresh Berries – Top with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a fresh burst of color and taste.
- Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and fluffy texture that complements the casserole perfectly.
Fruit Compote
- Berry Compote – Serve with a homemade berry compote made from simmered berries and sugar for an extra fruity kick.
- Apple Cinnamon Compote – Warm apple cinnamon compote adds a cozy fall flavor to each bite.
Nuts and Seeds
- Chopped Pecans – Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for added crunch and nuttiness.
- Toasted Coconut Flakes – Add toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist that pairs well with the cream cheese filling.
Coffee Pairing
- Freshly Brewed Coffee – Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee to balance the sweetness of the casserole.
- Flavored Lattes – Offer flavored lattes like vanilla or caramel to enhance the brunch experience.
How to Perfect Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
Perfecting this baked cream cheese french toast casserole takes just a few simple tricks. Follow these tips for the best results.
- Use Day-Old Bread – Stale bread absorbs more custard, resulting in a firmer texture after baking.
- Soak Overnight – Allowing the casserole to soak overnight ensures all flavors meld together beautifully.
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time – Check doneness at around 45 minutes; every oven varies in heat intensity.
- Make It Personal – Experiment with different fillings like chocolate chips or nuts for unique variations.
- Serve Warm – Enjoy it fresh out of the oven; this dish is best served warm for optimal flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
Pair your baked cream cheese french toast casserole with these delicious side dishes to create a complete meal.
- Crispy Bacon – The salty crunch provides a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the casserole.
- Sausage Links – Savory sausage links make for a hearty addition to your brunch table.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and add brightness to your meal.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a healthy, creamy complement.
- Hash Browns – Crispy hash browns add texture and heartiness that balances the dish nicely.
- Smoothie Bowl – A colorful smoothie bowl filled with fruits can offer a nutritious boost alongside your casserole.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole, a few common pitfalls can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Not using stale bread: Fresh bread can become overly soggy. Use day-old or toasted bread for the best texture.
- Skipping the refrigeration step: This casserole needs time to soak up the egg mixture. Refrigerating it overnight ensures a richer flavor and better consistency.
- Overmixing the cream cheese: While you want it smooth, overmixing can make the filling too thin. Mix just until combined for a creamy texture.
- Ignoring the topping: The crumble topping adds a delightful crunch. Don’t skip it; mix well and sprinkle generously for that perfect finish.
- Baking without checking: Ovens vary in temperature. Start checking for doneness at 40 minutes to avoid overbaking and ensure a soft interior.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 2-3 days for the best flavor.
Freezing Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole:
Can I use different types of bread for this casserole?
Yes! Sourdough, challah, or brioche are excellent choices that will add unique flavors and textures.
How do I make this Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole ahead of time?
Prepare it the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
What toppings go well with this casserole?
Maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream add wonderful flavors. You can also dust with confectioners’ sugar for extra sweetness.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! Add fruits like blueberries or bananas, or throw in some chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Final Thoughts
The Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any breakfast table. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Whether you’re serving it at brunch or enjoying it as a cozy breakfast, this recipe is sure to impress!
Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves up to 12 people
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast dish that elevates your brunch experience with its creamy texture and sweet, crunchy topping. This make-ahead casserole combines layers of cubed bread, a rich cream cheese filling, and a hint of cinnamon, all baked to golden perfection. Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions, this recipe allows you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Simply prepare it the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning for an impressive and satisfying meal that everyone will adore.
Ingredients
- 1 (12-14 ounce) loaf french bread, sourdough bread, or challah
- 8 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 Tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
- 3 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, divided
- 8 large eggs
- 2 and 1/4 cups whole milk
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- optional: maple syrup and/or confectioners’ sugar for topping
Instructions
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray.
- Slice the bread into cubes about 1 inch in size. Spread half of these cubes into the prepared baking pan.
- Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the room temperature cream cheese on medium-high speed until smooth.
- Add confectioners’ sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract; mix until combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the bread cubes. Layer the remaining bread cubes on top, ensuring some cream cheese remains exposed for presentation.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and remaining vanilla extract until no lumps remain.
- Pour this mixture evenly over the layered bread and cream cheese.
- Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or up to overnight for best results.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Remove your casserole from the refrigerator while waiting for it to heat up.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon.
- Cut in cold cubed butter using a pastry blender or two forks until crumbly. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the soaked bread mixture.
- Bake uncovered for about 45-55 minutes until golden brown on top. Adjust baking time according to how soft you prefer it.
- Drizzle with optional maple syrup or dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (130g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
