🎄 Christmas French Toast Casserole

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Professional Step‑by‑Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Baking Dish and Bread

• Grease a 9×13‑inch casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray.

• Cut or tear the loaf of bread into 1‑inch cubes.

• Spread the bread evenly across the prepared dish.

Step 2 — Make the Custard

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

  • 8 large eggs

  • 2½ cups milk (or heavy cream)

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • ¼ cup brown sugar

  • 2 tsp vanilla extract

  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon

  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

  • Pinch of salt

• Whisk until smooth and fully combined.

• Pour the custard evenly over the bread, ensuring every piece is well soaked.

Step 3 — Refrigerate (Optional but Recommended)

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil.

• Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for deeper flavor and a creamier texture.

• If pressed for time, you may proceed directly to the topping and baking.

Step 4 — Prepare the Streusel Topping

• In a small bowl, combine:

  • ½ cup brown sugar

  • ½ cup all‑purpose flour

  • ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)

  • 1 tsp cinnamon

• Add ½ cup cold, cubed unsalted butter.

• Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, blend until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.

• Sprinkle the topping evenly over the soaked bread.

Step 5 — Bake the Casserole

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes:

  • Bake 45 minutes for a softer, bread‑pudding texture.

  • Bake 55 minutes for a firmer, more structured casserole.

• The top should be golden brown and the center set.

Step 6 — Cool and Serve

• Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

• Finish with your choice of garnishes:

  • Powdered sugar

  • Maple syrup

  • Fresh berries (cranberries, raspberries, etc.)

  • Whipped cream www.2foodie.com