Cinnamon Raisin Bread French Toast Casserole

Serves 6 · 15 min prep · 50 min cook

Ingredients

• 12 slices cinnamon raisin bread
• 8 large eggs
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 4 tbsp, melted unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup fresh berries for topping
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar

Instructions

1. 1Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a little of the melted butter so the casserole lifts cleanly after baking.
2. 2Arrange the cinnamon raisin bread slices in overlapping rows or tear into large pieces that fill the dish in two loose layers.
3. 3In a big bowl whisk the eggs thoroughly, then whisk in milk, cream, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and fragrant.
4. 4Pour the custard evenly over the bread, making sure every piece is moistened; press gently with a spatula to submerge dry spots.
5. 5Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the top, cover the dish, and refrigerate at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum soak.
6. 6Preheat the oven to 350°F and uncover the casserole while the oven comes to temperature.
7. 7Bake 45 to 55 minutes until the top is deeply golden, the edges are bubbling, and the center no longer jiggles when the pan is nudged.
8. 8If the top browns too fast, tent loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes so the interior finishes cooking.
9. 9Remove from the oven and rest 10 minutes so the custard sets for cleaner scooping.
10. 10Dust with powdered sugar, scatter fresh berries over the surface, and drizzle maple syrup across the whole pan.
11. 11Scoop generous portions onto plates, making sure each serving includes both crispy top and soft, raisin-studded interior.
12. 12Serve warm so the cinnamon spice and fruit flavors of the bread shine through every bite.