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As the festive season approaches, there's a certain magic in the air. The scent of cinnamon and vanilla wafts through homes, laughter fills the rooms, and loved ones gather around tables brimming with delicious food. This season is all about sharing moments and creating memories, and what better way to do this than with a delightful meal? Enter the Festive French Toast Casserole—a show-stopping dish that perfectly embodies the spirit of togetherness and celebration.

French Toast Casserole

Elevate your family-friendly lunch game with these healthy lunch ideas featuring the delicious Festive French Toast Casserole. Bursting with flavors from sweet spices and fresh berries, this dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family meal. Discover how afterka can transform your lunch experience! HealthyLunchIdeas FamilyFriendly FestiveCasserole BrunchGoals HealthyEats Foodie Yummy
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Ingredients
  

1 loaf of brioche (or challah), cut into 1-inch cubes

6 large eggs

2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup maple syrup

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup fresh blueberries (or your choice of berries)

1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Powdered sugar (for serving)

Extra maple syrup (for drizzling)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Bread: In a large mixing bowl, place the brioche cubes. This bread absorbs the custard well and gives a rich flavor.

    Mix the Custard: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.

      Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the custard mixture over the brioche cubes. Gently fold the bread into the custard until it’s well coated. If using, fold in the blueberries and nuts at this stage.

        Soak: Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and let it soak in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the custard.

          Preheat the Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

            Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour the soaked bread mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

              Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, and the custard is set. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil while baking.

                Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with additional maple syrup on the side.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes | Servings: 8