Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
This Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is the perfect blend of fluffy bread, creamy filling, and a sweet crumble topping. Ideal for brunch gatherings or special breakfast occasions, this dish not only delights with flavor but also offers the convenience of being prepared ahead of time. With its rich cream cheese filling and a crispy topping, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the casserole the night before, making mornings easier and stress-free.
- Deliciously Creamy: The combination of cream cheese and vanilla creates a rich and satisfying filling that elevates traditional French toast.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a casual family breakfast, this casserole fits perfectly into any gathering.
- Customizable Toppings: Serve it plain or enhance it with maple syrup or powdered sugar for added sweetness.
- Feeds a Crowd: This recipe serves up to 12 people, making it great for larger gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making the casserole, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick baking spray
- 9×13-inch baking pan or 3-4 quart oven-safe dish
- Handheld or stand mixer with whisk attachment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick baking spray: Ensures easy removal of the casserole from the pan without sticking.
- Mixer: Helps quickly achieve a smooth cream cheese mixture essential for even flavor distribution.
- Baking pan: The right size ensures even cooking and proper portioning for serving.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole, gather the following ingredients:
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: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or any 3-4 quart oven-safe dish with nonstick spray. Slice the bread into cubes about 1 inch in size. Spread half of these cubes evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment:
1. Beat the softened cream cheese on medium-high speed until smooth.
2. Add in confectioners’ sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract; mix until fully combined.
3. Drop random spoonfuls of this mixture over the layer of bread cubes in the pan.
4. Top with the remaining bread cubes ensuring some cream cheese is exposed on top for visual appeal.
Step 3: Combine Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the 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 ideally overnight.
Step 4: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Once preheated, remove the pan from refrigeration.
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 Casserole
Bake uncovered for about 45-55 minutes or until golden brown on top. If you prefer a softer texture, aim for around 45 minutes.
Step 7: Serve
Drizzle with optional maple syrup or dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving warm. Enjoy!
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
Serving this baked cream cheese french toast casserole can elevate your brunch experience. It’s not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize the presentation and accompaniments based on your guests’ preferences.
With Fresh Fruits
- Berries – Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a refreshing touch.
- Bananas – Sliced bananas provide natural sweetness and pair well with cream cheese.
- Peaches – Grilled or fresh peaches enhance the dish’s flavor profile.
Drizzled with Syrup
- Maple Syrup – Classic choice that complements the sweetness of the casserole.
- Honey – A lighter option that adds a floral note to each bite.
- Caramel Sauce – For an indulgent twist, drizzle warm caramel over the top.
Garnished with Whipped Cream
- Homemade Whipped Cream – Light and airy, it balances the casserole’s richness perfectly.
- Flavored Whipped Cream – Consider vanilla or cinnamon for added depth.
Paired with Beverages
- Coffee – A warm cup of coffee enhances the breakfast vibe.
- Mimosas – Sparkling and fruity, they add a festive touch to brunch.
How to Perfect Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
To make this dish even more delightful, consider these tips for perfecting your baked cream cheese french toast casserole.
- Use Stale Bread – Stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better, resulting in a softer texture.
- Prep Overnight – Allowing it to soak overnight deepens flavors and ensures a moist casserole.
- Experiment with Spices – Adding nutmeg or cardamom can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
- Check Doneness Carefully – Use a toothpick; it should come out clean when done, but some softness is okay for a gooey interior.
- Let It Cool Slightly Before Serving – This helps set the layers and makes serving easier.
- Customize Fillings – Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
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 delicious options to consider.
- Crispy Bacon – The salty crunch of bacon contrasts beautifully with the sweet casserole.
- Sausage Links – Savory sausage adds an excellent protein boost to your brunch table.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a refreshing side.
- Breakfast Potatoes – Seasoned roasted potatoes provide hearty satisfaction alongside the dish.
- Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to your meal.
- Smoothies – Prepare a fruity smoothie for a light beverage option that complements your breakfast spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Not using stale bread: Fresh bread can become too soggy. Use day-old or toasted bread for better texture.
- Overmixing the cream cheese: Mixing too much can make it overly fluffy. Blend just until smooth for the best results.
- Skipping the overnight soak: This step is crucial for flavor absorption. Allow the casserole to sit in the fridge overnight for maximum taste.
- Ignoring the topping consistency: A crumbly topping adds texture. Ensure your butter is cold and cut in well to avoid a paste-like topping.
- Not checking doneness: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on baking time. Insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean when done.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
- Keep it tightly covered to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Freezing Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
- Wrap portions in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months.
- Label with the date for easy reference when defrosting.
Reheating Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for about 1-2 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm slices in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, flipping until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about preparing a Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole:
Can I make Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before and refrigerate. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
What type of bread works best?
Sourdough, challah, or any sturdy bread is ideal as they hold up well during soaking without becoming mushy.
How do I customize my casserole?
Feel free to add fruits like berries or bananas, nuts for crunch, or spices like nutmeg for extra warmth.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just ensure it’s wrapped properly.
What toppings can I use besides syrup?
Powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or whipped cream are excellent choices that add flavor and presentation.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its delightful flavors and satisfying textures!
Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves up to 12 people
Description
Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is the ultimate breakfast treat that combines fluffy bread with a luscious cream cheese filling and a delightful crumble topping. Perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, this dish can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy stress-free mornings. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s bound to impress your family and friends. Top it off with fresh fruits or a drizzle of syrup for an extra touch of sweetness!
Ingredients
- 1 (12-14 oz) loaf french bread, sourdough, or challah
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 8 large eggs
- 2 and 1/4 cups whole milk
- 2/3 cup light brown sugar
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Cube the bread and layer half in the pan.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth; mix in powdered sugar and 1/4 tsp vanilla. Spoon over bread cubes, then top with remaining cubes.
- Whisk eggs, milk, cinnamon, brown sugar, and remaining vanilla in a bowl; pour over bread layers.
- Cover 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 casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 304
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 207mg
