Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread (challah, brioche, or sourdough work great), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (I usually use whole milk, but you can use whatever you like)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• Optional toppings: berries, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, maple syrup, powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. I honestly just use butter. Works like a charm.
2. Arrange the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish. Try to spread them out evenly, you know?
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure it's all combined. No one likes eggy clumps.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down slightly to make sure all the bread is soaked.
5. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 2 hours). Trust me, this step is important. The bread needs time to soak up all that goodness. (Don’t you hate when people say things like “let rest for 15 minutes and your work is done?” I call BS).
6. In the morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Uncover the baking dish and sprinkle with your favorite toppings (if using). I like to do a mix of berries and chocolate chips… don’t judge me 😜.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
8. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup and dust with powdered sugar, if desired. Dig in and enjoy! Don't forget to take photos for insta!

Pro Tip: The longer you let the casserole sit, the better it tastes. I sometimes even make it two days in advance. Okay now go ahead and tell me I'm crazy.

Okay, here's where the fun really begins. This recipe is just a starting point, people! Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors and toppings. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Berry Bliss: Add a mix of fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) to the casserole before baking.
• Chocolate Lover's: Mix in chocolate chips or chunks, and drizzle with chocolate syrup after baking.
• Apple Cinnamon: Toss the bread cubes with diced apples and a little extra cinnamon before adding the egg mixture.
• Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds) on top of the casserole before baking.
• Caramel Crunch: Drizzle caramel sauce over the casserole after baking, and sprinkle with a little sea salt.

Seriously, the possibilities are endless! Let your imagination run wild. What are you waiting for, friend?!

Alright, let's talk tips and tricks. Because let's be honest, even the simplest recipes can be improved with a little insider knowledge.

• Use day-old bread: This will help the bread absorb the egg mixture without getting too soggy.
• Don't overbake: Overbaking will result in a dry, tough casserole. No bueno.
• Let it sit: As I mentioned before, letting the casserole sit overnight (or for at least 2 hours) is crucial for the best results. Don't skip this step!
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter casserole, add a little more sugar to the egg mixture. If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce the sugar.
• Use a good quality vanilla extract: This will make a big difference in the overall flavor of the casserole.

And most importantly, don't be afraid to experiment! This recipe is all about having fun and creating something delicious that you love.

French Toast Casserole: More Than Just Breakfast

I truly believe this casserole is more than just a breakfast dish. It's a symbol of comfort, love, and good times. It's the perfect dish to share with family and friends, and it's guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone's face. Plus, its versatile. Serve with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a hearty breakfast, or enjoy it as a decadent dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. No matter how you serve it, it's sure to be a hit. So go ahead, give this recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed!