A cozy casserole is a delicious way to start your morning, combining crispy baguette pieces with a rich, custardy bake. It’s a comforting recipe passed down from Grandma that’s perfect for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time40 min
Total Time55 min
Difficulty
Hard
Pro Kitchen Tips
Use slightly stale baguette for better absorption without becoming too soggy.
Let the casserole soak in the egg mixture overnight for deeper flavor.
Bake until the top is golden and crispy to add a nice crunch.
Ingredients
0/11
Why This Dish Is So Special
This dish combines the crispy texture of a baguette with the rich, custardy flavor of French toast. It’s a comforting breakfast that feels special but is easy to prepare. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day.
Step 1
Greas a 9x13-inch baking dish with some butter. Then, layer the baguette slices evenly in the bottom of the pan. In a separate bowl, whisk together the half-and-half, milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. Pour this mixture over the bread, making sure every slice gets soaked. Cover the dish and pop it in the fridge for at least 8 hours, or overnight if you can.
Step 2
When you're ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the cover, then mix the brown sugar, pecans, margarine, and corn syrup in a small bowl. Spoon this topping evenly over the bread, trying to get a bit on each slice. Bake for about 40 minutes, until the casserole is set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean when poked in the center. Let it cool slightly before serving and enjoy!
210
people cooked this recipe
ByRyan Parker
Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.
How To Enjoy This Dish
Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar. Fresh berries or sliced bananas add a bright contrast. A side of crispy bacon or sausage makes it a complete meal.
Refrigeration Tips
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to keep the crust crispy. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular bread instead of a French baguette?
Yes, you can substitute with thick slices of any crusty bread, but a baguette works best for texture.
Do I have to soak the bread overnight?
Soaking for at least 8 hours helps the flavors meld and the bread absorb the custard, but 4 hours can work in a pinch.
Can I leave out the pecans?
Absolutely, pecans are optional and the dish will still be delicious without them.
What can I use instead of half-and-half?
You can use all milk or a mix of milk and cream if you don’t have half-and-half.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
It’s done when the top is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
You would need to use a gluten-free baguette or bread to make it gluten-free.
Is it possible to make this ahead and freeze it?
Yes, you can assemble and freeze it before baking, then thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
What’s a good substitute for margarine in the topping?
This simple and flavorful burger combines ground chicken with hearty chickpeas for a healthy twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for a quick weeknigh...
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Snacks
Meals
Drinks
Vegan
