Go Back

1) Classic Cinnamon-Stuffed French Toast Casserole

This one tastes like cinnamon rolls without the three hours of waiting. Cream cheese gets mixed into the bread before the custard goes on, which gives every bite that slightly tangy, rich center you want from a good sticky bun. My middle kid always asks for seconds, and honestly so do I.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 loaf challah or brioche 10–12 oz, torn into 2-inch pieces
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon divided
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup plus more for serving
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • Pinch salt

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and butter a 9x13-inch dish.
  2. Whisk cream cheese, brown sugar, and 1 tsp cinnamon until smooth.
  3. Toss bread with cream cheese mix so chunks get coated.
  4. Whisk eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, melted butter, remaining cinnamon, and salt.
  5. Pour custard over bread and press pieces down to soak.
  6. Let sit 20 minutes, or cover and chill overnight.
  7. Bake uncovered 40–45 minutes until puffed and golden.
  8. Cool 5 minutes, then slice and serve with extra maple syrup.