Ina Garten Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe

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Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of caramelized bread, sweet vanilla, and a hint of cinnamon. Ina Garten’s Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe is a sensory experience that will transport you to a cozy breakfast haven. Each bite is a delightful balance of textures and flavors, with the crispy, golden-brown crust giving way to a fluffy, egg-soaked interior.

But what makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and flexibility. As Ina Garten would say, “How easy is that?” With just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you can whip up a stunning breakfast or brunch dish that’s sure to impress. And the best part? You can prepare it ahead of time, making it perfect for busy mornings or special occasions. For a deeper dive into Ina’s cooking philosophy and more recipes like this one, check out How to make Ina Garten Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a successful French toast casserole is the bread, and Ina’s recipe uses a rich, eggy brioche that’s perfectly suited to soaking up the egg mixture.
By assembling the casserole the night before, you allow the bread to absorb the flavors and moisture, resulting in a tender, evenly cooked final product.
The addition of cinnamon and vanilla adds a warm, comforting flavor that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend morning.

Key Ingredients

When it comes to this recipe, the quality of your ingredients can make all the difference. For the best results, use a high-quality brioche or challah bread that’s fresh and flavorful. You’ll also want to use real vanilla extract and high-quality cinnamon for the best flavor. For more information on Ina’s favorite ingredients and cooking tips, check out her website at https://barefootcontessa.com/recipes.

In addition to the bread and spices, you’ll need some basic pantry staples like eggs, milk, and granulated sugar. Don’t forget to use unsalted butter for the best flavor, and consider adding some fresh fruit or nuts to the casserole for added texture and flavor.

Recipe Courtesy of Our Kitchen

Ina Garten Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe

★★★★★ (55 Reviews)

Level:
Easy

Prep:
15 min

Cook:
25 min

Yield:
4 Servings

Ingredients

1 loaf of brioche or challah bread (about 1 pound)

4 large eggs

1 cup of granulated sugar

1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted

2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

1 cup of heavy cream or whole milk

Fresh fruit or nuts for serving (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Add the heavy cream or whole milk to the bowl and whisk until smooth. Add the cubed bread to the bowl and toss until the bread is evenly coated with the egg mixture.

Pour the bread mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. Serve warm, topped with fresh fruit or nuts if desired.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through.