A Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole for Brunch Perfection
If you’re looking for a breakfast that combines elegance with indulgence, look no further than this decadent vanilla bean French toast bake. With rich custard-soaked bread, fragrant vanilla bean, and a golden, lightly crisped topping, this baked dish transforms humble ingredients into a luxurious morning meal.
Perfect for holidays, brunch gatherings, or weekend family breakfasts, this dish can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning. It’s everything you love about French toast — in casserole form.
Ingredients
This recipe serves 8 to 10 people.
For the French Toast Base
- One loaf brioche or challah bread (about 14 to 16 ounces), cubed
- Six large eggs
- Two and one-quarter cups whole milk
- Half cup heavy cream
- Three-quarters cup granulated sugar
- One vanilla bean (or one tablespoon pure vanilla extract)
- One teaspoon ground cinnamon
- One-eighth teaspoon salt
For the Topping
- Two tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Three tablespoons brown sugar
- One teaspoon cinnamon
- Optional: powdered sugar, fresh berries, or maple syrup for serving
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Chill time: 4 hours or overnight
- Baking time: 45 to 50 minutes
- Total time: About 5 to 6 hours including chilling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- Lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish.
- Cube the brioche or challah bread into one-inch pieces and place them evenly in the dish.
- Let the bread sit out for 10 to 15 minutes to slightly dry out while preparing the custard.
Step 2: Make the Vanilla Bean Custard
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- If using a vanilla bean, split it lengthwise and scrape out the seeds, adding both seeds and pod to the mixture. If using extract, add it now.
- Whisk until smooth, then remove the vanilla pod if used.
Step 3: Assemble and Chill
- Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down lightly so all pieces absorb the liquid.
- Cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 4: Add the Topping and Bake
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Drizzle the topping over the chilled casserole just before baking.
- Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until golden and set in the center.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Dust with powdered sugar and add fresh berries for a classic finish.
- Drizzle with warm maple syrup or honey.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla yogurt.
- Pair with savory sides like scrambled eggs or sausage for a balanced brunch.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 of 10) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Protein | 9 grams |
| Total Fat | 14 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 7 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 38 grams |
| Sugars | 16 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Cholesterol | 130 milligrams |
| Sodium | 210 milligrams |
Key Nutritional Benefits:
- Eggs provide a source of protein and vitamin B12
- Whole milk and cream add calcium and richness
- Brioche delivers satisfying texture and energy
- Vanilla bean adds fragrance without excess calories
Tips for Success
- For a firmer texture, let the casserole sit uncovered for 15 minutes before baking.
- Avoid overbaking to prevent drying out. The center should be just set, not rubbery.
- Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the bread for texture and flavor variation.
- Use day-old bread to better absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
Variations to Try
- Swap the vanilla bean for almond extract and top with slivered almonds.
- Add thin-sliced apples or pears between the bread layers for a fruity twist.
- Make it dairy-free using almond milk and coconut cream with vegan butter.
- Add a splash of orange zest or liqueur for a bright citrus flavor.
Vanilla bean French toast bake is a show-stopping breakfast that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious to serve. Its rich custard, warm spices, and fragrant vanilla elevate this dish from casual to celebration-worthy. With its make-ahead convenience and crowd-pleasing flavor, it is sure to become a favorite in your brunch recipe lineup.