This Chocolate Chip French Toast Casserole is a warm, sweet treat that combines soft bread with rich chocolate chips. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, it’s super easy to make!
I love how you can prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning. It feels like Sunday morning magic—just add some syrup and enjoy cozy bites with family! 🍫🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Day-old Bread: Using brioche or challah gives the casserole a soft and fluffy texture. If you don’t have these, French bread or even regular sandwich bread can work, although the flavor will differ slightly.
Whole Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess to the custard. To lighten it up, you can use 2% milk or even almond milk for a dairy-free option. Just note that the texture might change a little.
Eggs: The eggs bind everything together and create a nice custard. For a vegan alternative, you could use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) or a commercial egg replacer.
Chocolate Chips: I love semi-sweet chocolate chips, but you can also use dark chocolate or even white chocolate for a different twist. If you want a healthier option, try using dark chocolate chips.
How Do You Ensure Your Casserole Soaks Up All the Custard?
Getting the bread to soak evenly is key for a moist casserole. Here are some helpful steps:
- When pouring the custard over the bread, gently press down with a spatula to help it soak in.
- Letting it sit in the fridge overnight works wonders. This allows enough time for the bread to absorb the liquids.
- If you’re short on time, even a couple of hours can help, but longer is always better for flavor.
Chocolate Chip French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf (about 12 ounces) day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (brioche or challah recommended)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 6 large eggs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and needs to chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight is best!). Baking will take another 45-50 minutes. So, plan for around 5 hours total (with chill time) before enjoying your delicious casserole!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Casserole Dish:
Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter to prevent sticking. This will ensure your casserole comes out perfectly when it’s done!
2. Add the Bread Cubes:
Next, take your day-old bread and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Place these evenly in the prepared casserole dish. Feel free to use a mix of breads for extra flavor!
3. Mix the Custard:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until everything is combined well. This mixture will create a delicious custard that brings everything to life!
4. Combine the Custard and Bread:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the dish. Gently press down on the bread with a spatula or your hands to help absorb the custard. It’s important that all the bread pieces soak up that yummy mixture!
5. Add the Chocolate Chips:
Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top of the bread and custard mixture. You can add a few extra for a special touch—who doesn’t love more chocolate?
6. Chill the Casserole:
Cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, or for the best results, overnight. This helps all the flavors blend together beautifully!
7. Preheat the Oven:
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly and comes out just right.
8. Get Ready to Bake:
Take the casserole out of the fridge. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top, giving it a nice rich flavor and helping it brown nicely in the oven.
9. Bake It!
Add a few extra chocolate chips on top for an even gooier finish. Bake the casserole uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Cut into squares and serve warm with plenty of maple syrup drizzled on top. Enjoy this delightful treat with family or friends!
Happy cooking, and enjoy your rich, chocolate-studded French toast casserole! 🍫🍞
Can I Use Fresh Bread Instead of Day-Old?
While day-old bread is recommended for optimal absorption of the custard, you can use fresh bread if needed. Just lightly stale it by leaving it out for a few hours or toasting it lightly in the oven so it can soak in the liquid better.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the bread with gluten-free bread. Be sure to check that your other ingredients, like the chocolate chips and any toppings, are also gluten-free to keep the casserole 100% safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. It’s delicious the next day, too!
What Toppings Can I Use Besides Maple Syrup?
While maple syrup is a classic, you can also top the casserole with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a delightful touch! Nut butters or caramel sauce are also great alternatives for extra flavor.