Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
This Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is a delightful dish perfect for brunch or breakfast gatherings. With its creamy filling and sweet crumble topping, this casserole stands out for its rich flavor and ease of preparation. You can conveniently prep it the night before, allowing you to enjoy your morning without stress. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a simple weekend treat, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the casserole the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and brown sugar topping creates an indulgent taste.
- Feeding a Crowd: This recipe serves up to 12 people, making it ideal for family gatherings or parties.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize with maple syrup or powdered sugar for added sweetness.
- Simple Ingredients: Use common pantry staples to whip up a delicious meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this scrumptious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick 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 spray: Prevents the casserole from sticking to the baking dish, ensuring easy removal.
- Mixer: Provides a quick and efficient way to blend the cream cheese until smooth, saving time.
- Baking pan: The right size ensures even cooking and makes serving easy.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole:
– 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, spooned & leveled
– 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 evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Step 2: Mix 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 completely smooth.
2. Add in the confectioners’ sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Drop spoonfuls of this cream cheese mixture on top of the bread cubes.
4. Layer the remaining bread cubes over the cream cheese mixture, ensuring some remains exposed.
Step 3: Prepare the 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 bread layers in your baking pan.
3. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Preheat Oven & Prepare Topping
When ready to bake:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
3. Cut in cold cubed butter using a pastry blender or two forks until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the soaked bread mixture.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for about 45–55 minutes, until golden brown on top. If you prefer it softer, aim for around 45 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Once baked, drizzle with optional maple syrup or dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving warm.
Storing Leftovers
Cover leftovers tightly and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Now you’re ready to enjoy this delicious Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole!
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
Serving your baked cream cheese french toast casserole can elevate any brunch experience. This dish is as delicious as it is versatile, making it easy to customize for your guests’ preferences.
With Fresh Fruits
- Berries – Top with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.
- Banana Slices – Add sliced bananas for a delightful sweetness that pairs well with the cream cheese filling.
Drizzled with Syrup
- Maple Syrup – A classic choice; drizzle warm maple syrup over each serving for added sweetness.
- Honey – For a lighter touch, drizzle honey on top to enhance the flavors of the casserole.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Fresh Whipped Cream – Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a rich and creamy finish.
- Flavored Whipped Cream – Experiment with vanilla or cinnamon-infused whipped cream for extra flair.
Accompanied by Beverages
- Coffee – A warm cup of coffee complements the dish wonderfully, enhancing the brunch experience.
- Mimosas – For a festive touch, serve alongside mimosas made from fresh orange juice and sparkling wine.
How to Perfect Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
Achieving the perfect baked cream cheese french toast casserole is all about technique. Here are some tips to make it even better.
- Use Day-Old Bread – Stale bread absorbs the custard mixture better, resulting in a more flavorful casserole.
- Soak Overnight – For best results, let the casserole soak in the refrigerator overnight for optimal flavor and texture.
- Experiment with Spices – Feel free to add nutmeg or vanilla bean paste for additional depth in flavor.
- Check Doneness Carefully – Make sure to check that it’s golden brown on top but not overcooked to maintain moisture.
- Add Nuts for Crunch – Consider sprinkling pecans or walnuts on top before baking for extra texture.
- Serve Warm – This dish tastes best when served warm; reheat leftovers gently in the oven if needed.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
Pairing side dishes with your baked cream cheese french toast casserole can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:
- Crispy Bacon – The savory crunch of bacon makes an excellent contrast to the sweet casserole.
- Sausage Links – Juicy sausage links add heartiness and complement the flavors perfectly.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad brings brightness and balances out the richness of the casserole.
- Yogurt Parfaits – Layered yogurt with granola and fruit offers a light yet satisfying option alongside your dish.
- Hash Browns – Crispy hash browns provide a comforting addition that rounds out the breakfast spread.
- Smoothies – Offer smoothies made from spinach, banana, and almond milk for a healthy beverage option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a baked cream cheese french toast casserole, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for.
- Skipping the refrigeration time: Not allowing the casserole to sit overnight can lead to a soggy texture. Always refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, preferably overnight, for the best results.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or cream cheese can make mixing difficult. Always bring your cream cheese and eggs to room temperature before starting.
- Overmixing the egg mixture: Overmixing can introduce too much air, leading to a spongy texture. Mix just until combined to ensure a smooth, creamy casserole.
- Ignoring the topping: A crumbly topping adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip it! Make sure to evenly distribute the crumble over the top before baking.
- Not checking for doneness: Baking times can vary based on your oven. Check for a golden brown color and firm texture in the center before removing from the oven.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
- Make sure to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
- Wrap well in plastic wrap and then foil; this prevents freezer burn.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm throughout.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, covered, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious baked cream cheese french toast casserole.
What is Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole?
Baked cream cheese french toast casserole is a delightful breakfast dish featuring layers of bread soaked in a creamy egg mixture with sweetened cream cheese.
Can I prepare Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! This dish is perfect for make-ahead preparations. Refrigerate it overnight after assembling it.
How do I customize my Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole?
You can add fruits like blueberries or strawberries, nuts, or even spices like nutmeg for extra flavor. Get creative!
What should I serve with Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole?
This casserole pairs beautifully with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream for added indulgence.
Final Thoughts
This baked cream cheese french toast casserole is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you are hosting brunch or enjoying a cozy family breakfast, this recipe is sure to impress. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or add-ins!
Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate breakfast treat with our Baked Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole. This delightful dish combines layers of fluffy bread soaked in a rich custard, interspersed with creamy, sweetened cream cheese, and topped with a crunchy brown sugar crumble. Perfect for brunch gatherings or special occasions, this make-ahead recipe allows you to prepare it the night before, ensuring a stress-free morning. Simply pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a warm, comforting meal that impresses family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread or challah
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 2 and 1/4 cups whole milk
- 2/3 cup light brown sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Unsalted butter
- 2 Tablespoons confectioners' sugar
- 3 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and cube the bread, layering half into the bottom.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth; mix in confectioners' sugar and vanilla. Drop spoonfuls over bread.
- Top with remaining bread cubes.
- Whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla; pour over layered bread.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare topping by mixing brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and butter until crumbly; sprinkle on top.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
