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Ingredients:
For the French Toast:
1 loaf (14 to 16 ounces) French bread, brioche, or challah, cut into 1-inch cubes
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Streusel Topping:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
Preparation:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Make the Custard Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure all the bread is coated.
Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the custard.
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
Prepare the Streusel Topping:
In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
Add the cold butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in the chopped nuts, if using.
Cover and refrigerate the streusel topping until ready to use.
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Bake the French Toast Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Remove the French toast casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes while the oven preheats.
Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed up, golden brown, and set in the center. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the casserole with aluminum foil.
Serving:
Let the baked French toast casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cut into squares and serve warm, with maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or whipped cream, if desired.
Tips:
Bread Choice: For the best texture, use a day-old bread that’s slightly dry. Brioche or challah will give you a rich and tender casserole, while French bread will provide a firmer texture.
Custard Soaking: Allowing the bread to soak in the custard mixture for several hours or overnight is key to a moist and flavorful casserole.
Customizations: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins to the casserole, such as chocolate chips, blueberries, or diced apples, before baking.
Make-Ahead: This casserole is a great make-ahead breakfast option. You can prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning for a stress-free and delicious breakfast.
Enjoy your delicious and easy baked French toast casserole, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch with family and friends!
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