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Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe

This Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole Recipe combines rich vanilla custard, soft challah bread, and a buttery cinnamon topping for the ultimate make-ahead breakfast. Perfect for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, and feeding a crowd.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Cajun / Southern American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 1 large loaf challah bread cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Toppings
  • Maple syrup
  • Powdered sugar
  • Fresh berries
  • Whipped cream
  • Toasted pecans

Equipment

  • 1 9x13-Inch Baking Dish For baking the casserole
  • 1 Large mixing bowl For preparing the custard
  • 1 Whisk Helps create a smooth custard
  • 1 Measuring Cups & Spoons For accurate ingredient measurements
  • 1 Silicone Spatula For pressing bread into the custard
  • 1 Plastic Wrap For overnight chilling

Method
 

Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and arrange the cubed challah bread evenly inside.
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
      Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press the bread down with a spatula to help it absorb the liquid.
        Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
          Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
            Bake for 45–50 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.
              Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Top with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries if desired.

                Notes

                • Day-old challah bread creates the best texture.
                • Overnight soaking produces a richer, creamier casserole.
                • Brioche can be substituted for challah.
                • Let the casserole rest before slicing for cleaner servings.
                • Fresh orange zest adds the signature Barefoot Contessa-style flavor.