Sourdough French Toast Casserole: 5 Irresistible Layers

Sourdough French Toast Casserole is the ultimate breakfast treat that seamlessly combines the hearty texture of sourdough with a creamy custard base. This delightful baked casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the heart and fills the stomach. Topped with a luscious mixed berry compote, it offers a wonderful balance of flavors and can easily feed a crowd, making it perfect for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts. Let’s dive into this easy sourdough French toast casserole recipe that you will surely want to make over and over.

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough French Toast Casserole

This dish is packed with multiple benefits. Firstly, it can be prepared the night before, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free morning. Secondly, it’s incredibly versatile; you can customize it with your favorite fruits or nuts, such as pecans or berries. Thirdly, it serves a crowd, making it ideal for brunch gatherings. Additionally, this casserole is a delightful way to use up leftover sourdough bread, reducing food waste. The creamy custard base ensures each bite is rich and satisfying. Lastly, this dish is vegetarian-friendly, catering to various dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Sourdough French Toast Casserole

Gather these items:

• 1 loaf (approximately 1.1 lbs) sourdough bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened, for greasing
• 2 cups (approximately 10.6 oz) mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar (for compote)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp water
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
• Maple syrup (optional)

How to Make Sourdough French Toast Casserole Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with softened butter and arrange the sourdough bread cubes evenly in the dish.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Step 3: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the sourdough bread cubes. Gently press down on the bread to ensure all pieces are soaked. Let stand for at least 10 minutes or refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor.
4. Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, until the surface is golden brown and the interior is set.
5. Step 5: While the casserole bakes, prepare the berry compote by combining mixed berries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and water in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until the berries break down and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Step 6: Remove the baked casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving warm topped with berry compote and optional garnishes like powdered sugar or maple syrup.

Pro Tips for the Best Sourdough French Toast Casserole

Keep these in mind:

• Refrigerate overnight for better flavor.
• Use fresh or frozen mixed berries as preferred.
• For a creamier texture, consider adding cream cheese to the custard mixture for a Sourdough French toast casserole with cream cheese.
• To make it gluten-free, substitute the sourdough with gluten-free bread.

Best Ways to Serve Sourdough French Toast Casserole

This casserole can be served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or drizzled with maple syrup for a sweet touch. For added flavor, consider a topping of fresh fruit or a Sourdough French toast casserole topped with fruit like strawberries or bananas. It pairs beautifully with a side of bacon or sausage for a hearty brunch.

How to Store and Reheat Sourdough French Toast Casserole

To store leftovers, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days. When ready to reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This makes it an easy option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast any day of the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sourdough French Toast Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Sourdough French Toast Casserole?

The secret lies in the soaking time; letting the bread absorb the custard overnight ensures a rich flavor and a soft, custardy texture. Use high-quality sourdough for the best results.

Can I make Sourdough French Toast Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is one of the best features of this dish. Assemble it the night before and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it in the morning.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sourdough French Toast Casserole?

Common mistakes include not soaking the bread long enough or using bread that is too fresh. Stale sourdough works best as it absorbs the custard without becoming mushy.

Variations of Sourdough French Toast Casserole You Can Try

Get creative with your casserole! You can try a Sourdough breakfast casserole with nuts and chocolate chips, or make it healthier by adding oats or using whole milk. Another option is to create a traditional sourdough French toast casserole by sticking to the classic flavors of cinnamon and vanilla.

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection. If you’re interested in a savory option, try our Persian Chicken Recipe. For a quick meal, consider our Teriyaki Chicken Sheet Pan Supper. You can also explore Jalapeno Buffalo Chicken Casserole for a spicy twist. Lastly, don’t forget to check out our About Me page to learn more about our culinary journey.

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