Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
This Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is a delightful dish that combines the richness of cream cheese with the comforting flavors of French toast. Perfect for brunches or breakfast gatherings, this casserole can be prepared the night before, making it convenient and ideal for busy mornings. The sweet cream cheese filling and brown sugar crumble topping elevate this dish to a new level of deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare this casserole the night before, so it’s ready to bake in the morning.
- Creamy and Flavorful: With a delicious cream cheese filling, each bite is creamy and bursting with flavor.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This recipe serves 12, making it perfect for family breakfasts or brunch parties.
- Customizable Toppings: Add maple syrup or powdered sugar to suit your taste, enhancing its sweetness.
- Easy Instructions: Simple steps make it easy for anyone to whip up this crowd-pleaser.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin making your Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick spray
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Handheld mixer or stand mixer
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick spray: Ensures easy removal of the casserole from the pan without sticking.
- Handheld mixer or stand mixer: Makes mixing the cream cheese smooth and easy, ensuring a well-combined filling.
Ingredients
This baked cream cheese french toast casserole is stuffed with sweet cream cheese and topped with a brown sugar crumble topping. It’s a wonderful recipe for a brunch or breakfast gathering because you can prep the casserole the night before.
Bread Base
- 1 (12-14 ounce) loaf french bread, sourdough bread, or challah
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces (226g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 Tablespoons (15g) confectioners’ sugar (do not leave out)
- 3 teaspoons (15ml) pure vanilla extract, divided
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 2 and 1/4 cups (540ml) whole milk
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Crumble Topping
- 2/3 cup (133g) packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup (69g) packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup (41g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 Tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Optional Toppings
- Maple syrup and/or confectioners’ sugar for topping
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
Step 1: Grease the Baking Pan
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 evenly in the prepared baking pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
Using a handheld mixer or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment:
1. Beat the softened cream cheese on medium-high speed until smooth.
2. Mix in the confectioners’ sugar and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the bread cubes in the pan.
4. Layer remaining bread cubes on top of the cream cheese mixture.
Step 3: Make the Egg Custard Mixture
In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, brown sugar, and remaining vanilla until no lumps remain.
2. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered bread in the baking pan.
3. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or up to 24 hours; overnight is best.
Step 4: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Remove your pan from refrigeration while you prepare your crumble topping.
Step 5: Prepare Crumble Topping
In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together brown sugar, flour, and 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 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes or until golden brown on top. If you prefer it softer, bake closer to 45 minutes. Drizzle with optional maple syrup or dust with confectioners’ sugar right before serving warm.
Step 7: Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftovers tightly and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Enjoy making this delicious Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole! It’s sure to delight everyone at your breakfast gathering!
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
Serving Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole can elevate your brunch experience. This delightful dish pairs beautifully with various toppings and sides that enhance its flavor.
Toppings
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm maple syrup over individual servings for a classic touch.
- Confectioners’ Sugar: Dust with confectioners’ sugar for a sweet finishing touch and an attractive presentation.
- Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing burst of flavor.
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess and indulgence.
Accompaniments
- Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a savory contrast to the sweetness of the casserole.
- Sausage Links: Breakfast sausage links provide a hearty protein option alongside the dish.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can balance the richness of the casserole.
- Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a healthy side that complements the main dish.
How to Perfect Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
To achieve the best results with your Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread absorbs custard better, resulting in a softer texture after baking.
- Soak Overnight: Allowing the casserole to soak overnight enhances flavors and ensures even custard distribution.
- Preheat Oven Thoroughly: Ensure your oven reaches 350°F (177°C) before baking for consistent cooking.
- Check Doneness: Insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean when fully baked. Adjust baking time as needed.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or variations of extract for unique twists on flavor.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to cool slightly makes slicing easier and improves presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
Pairing side dishes with your Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement this delicious dish.
- Crispy Hash Browns: Golden-brown hash browns add a satisfying crunch to your breakfast table.
- Eggs Benedict: The rich hollandaise sauce on poached eggs pairs wonderfully with sweet casseroles.
- Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread provides a healthy counterbalance to the richness of the casserole.
- Breakfast Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes offer an earthy flavor that balances sweetness nicely.
- Green Smoothie: A refreshing green smoothie boosts nutrition and adds brightness to your meal.
- Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses offers variety and complements the flavors in your casserole.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect baked cream cheese french toast casserole can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the Overnight Soak: Failing to let the casserole soak overnight deprives it of flavor and moisture. Allowing it to rest ensures the bread absorbs the egg mixture fully.
- Not Using Enough Cream Cheese: Underestimating the cream cheese can lead to a bland casserole. Stick to the recommended amount for a rich, creamy filling.
- Ignoring the Topping: Neglecting to add a crumble topping can make your dish less appealing. Always prepare a crumble for added texture and sweetness.
- Overbaking: Cooking too long can dry out the casserole. Keep an eye on it and remove when golden brown for a soft, fluffy texture.
- Using Stale Bread: Fresh bread makes all the difference. Stale bread won’t soak up the egg mixture as well, leading to uneven texture.
- Forgetting to Grease the Pan: Not greasing your baking dish can cause sticking, making serving difficult. Use nonstick spray or butter for easy removal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last for 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
- Cool completely before freezing.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
- It can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions for about 30-45 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: For a quick reheat, place slices in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making this delicious baked cream cheese french toast casserole, here are some common questions answered.
Can I make Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for prepping ahead. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.
What type of bread should I use?
You can use any bread you like! Sourdough, challah, or even brioche works great for this baked cream cheese french toast casserole.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The casserole should be golden brown on top and puffed up. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when properly cooked.
Can I add toppings to my Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add fruits like berries or bananas before baking, or serve with maple syrup and powdered sugar on top.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes! You can freeze leftovers for up to two months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped before freezing.
Final Thoughts
This baked cream cheese french toast casserole is not only delightful but also versatile enough for various occasions. It’s perfect for brunches or cozy family breakfasts. You can customize it by adding fruits or nuts based on your taste preferences. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Breakfast
Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is a luxurious twist on a classic breakfast favorite. This decadent dish features layers of soft bread soaked in a creamy custard infused with rich cream cheese and vanilla, all topped with a delightful brown sugar crumble. Perfect for breakfast gatherings or brunch parties, this casserole can be prepared the night before, making it an ideal option for busy mornings. Simply pop it in the oven and enjoy the sweet aroma as it bakes to golden perfection. Serve with maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream for an irresistible treat that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 (12-14 ounce) loaf French bread or challah
- 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 2 and 1/4 cups whole milk
- 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and layer half in the pan.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth; mix in confectioners' sugar and a quarter teaspoon of vanilla. Spoon over the bread, then add remaining bread cubes on top.
- Whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, brown sugar, and remaining vanilla. Pour evenly over the layered bread.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare crumble topping by mixing brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and cold butter until crumbly; sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
