Description
This incredible French toast casserole with cream cheese transforms a regular breakfast into a celebratory brunch, making everyone feel utterly loved. It offers an unexpected creamy richness that elevates every single bite, making it a make-ahead marvel perfect for busy parents or anyone wanting a relaxed morning. It's easy to assemble, often the night before, and the creamy tang of the cream cheese filling layered within creates an irresistible, comforting, decadent, and satisfying flavor profile.
Ingredients
1 loaf (1 lb) stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
8 large eggs
2 cups milk
0.5 cup heavy cream
0.5 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamo
0.25 teaspoon nutmeg
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
0.5 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the cubed stale bread evenly in the dish
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined
- Soak the Bread: Pour the egg custard evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are saturated. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl: In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy
- Add Cream Cheese: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the bread casserole. Use a knife or spoon to gently swirl the cream cheese into the bread. Do not overmix
- Chill (Optional but Recommended): Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the center. A knife inserted near the center should come out clea
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving
Notes
Always use stale bread; fresh bread tends to turn mushy.
An overnight soak is crucial for maximum flavor and custard absorption.
For the creamiest cream cheese swirl, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps.
You can tent the casserole with foil halfway through baking if it starts to brown too quickly.
A little extra drizzle of maple syrup after baking always enhances the flavor.
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or larger amounts covered with foil in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 20-30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: french toast casserole, cream cheese, make-ahead, overnight, breakfast, brunch, easy casserole