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Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe

Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe

This Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe is a rich, comforting make-ahead dish inspired by Ina Garten’s famous style of simple yet elegant cooking.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Chill Time 8 hours
Total Time 9 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 8 People
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

For the French Toast Casserole
  • 1 loaf brioche or challah bread cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2½ cups half-and-half
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for greasing
For the Streusel Topping (Optional)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ cup cold butter cubed
  • ½ cup chopped pecans
For Serving
  • Maple syrup
  • Powdered sugar
  • Fresh berries

Equipment

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Plastic wrap
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Pastry cutter or fork

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
  1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter. This prevents sticking and helps create beautifully golden edges after baking.
    Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe (1)
Step 2: Arrange the Bread
  1. Place the cubed brioche or challah bread evenly into the prepared baking dish. Slightly stale bread works best because it absorbs more custard without becoming mushy.
    Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe (7)
Step 3: Make the Custard
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and fully combined.
    Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe (6)
Step 4: Pour Over the Bread
  1. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press the bread down with a spatula so every piece absorbs the liquid.
    Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe (5)
Step 5: Refrigerate Overnight
  1. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This allows the bread to soak up all the custard and develop its signature texture.
    Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe (4)
Step 6: Add the Streusel and Bake
  1. The next morning, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit for 30 minutes. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the surface and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes until golden brown and set.
    Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe (3)
Step 7: Cool and Serve
  1. Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup and fresh berries for the ultimate brunch experience.
    Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe (2)

Video

Notes

  • Use day-old brioche or challah bread for the best texture.
  • Allow the casserole to soak overnight for maximum flavor.
  • Don’t skip resting the casserole before baking.
  • Use real vanilla extract for richer flavor.
  • Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
  • Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving.
  • Warm maple syrup before serving for a restaurant-quality touch.