This Vegan French Toast Casserole is the stuff of plant-based brunch dreams. Imagine: thick slices of bread soaked in a creamy vanilla custard, baked until golden brown, and topped with a symphony of sweet and fruity goodness. It’s easier to make than traditional French toast (no standing over a hot stove flipping individual slices!) and perfect for feeding a crowd. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible breakfast (or dessert!) staple.
What You’ll Need to Make Vegan French Toast Casserole
Ingredients for the Casserole
- 1 loaf of sturdy bread (such as challah, brioche, or sourdough), slightly stale and cubed
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup unsweetened soy milk
- 1/2 cup maple syrup, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup vegan butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Ingredients for the Crumble Topping (Optional, but Highly Recommended!)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Let’s Make Some Vegan French Toast Magic!
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Prepping for Vegan French Toast Casserole - Make the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the almond milk, soy milk, maple syrup, melted vegan butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Vegan French Toast Casserole Custard - Soak the bread: Add the cubed bread to the custard mixture and gently press down to ensure all the pieces are fully submerged. Allow the bread to soak for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a softer, more custard-like texture.
Chef’s Tip from Maya Alwood: “Don’t rush the soaking process! The longer the bread soaks, the more custard it absorbs, resulting in a richer, more flavorful casserole.”
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the soaked bread mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Assembling the Vegan French Toast Casserole - Optional crumble topping: In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped walnuts, all-purpose flour, and cinnamon for the crumble topping. Cut in the softened vegan butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the brown sugar. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the bread mixture in the baking dish.
Crumble Topping for Vegan French Toast Casserole - Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and the custard is set. If using the crumble topping, you may need to bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.
Baking Vegan French Toast Casserole - Serve and savor: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with additional maple syrup and your favorite toppings like fresh fruit, vegan whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Vegan French Toast Casserole Custard
Assembling the Vegan French Toast Casserole
Crumble Topping for Vegan French Toast Casserole
Baking Vegan French Toast CasseroleVegan French Toast Casserole: Tips, Tricks, and FAQs
Can I make vegan French toast casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This casserole is a great make-ahead breakfast or brunch option. You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed.
What kind of bread is best for vegan French toast casserole?
Sturdier breads like challah, brioche, or sourdough work best for this recipe as they hold their shape well after soaking in the custard. Slightly stale bread is actually ideal as it will absorb the custard more readily. However, if you only have fresh bread, no problem! Simply bake the cubed bread in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to dry it out slightly.
Chef Maya’s Pro Tip: “For a fun twist, try using croissants or cinnamon raisin bread for your casserole! Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.”
What are some other topping ideas for vegan French toast casserole?
The topping possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas:
- Fresh berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries add a burst of freshness and sweetness.
- Sliced bananas: Adds a creamy texture and a hint of banana flavor.
- Chopped nuts: Pecans, walnuts, or almonds add a satisfying crunch.
- Chocolate chips: Because who doesn’t love chocolate for breakfast?
- Vegan whipped cream: For a decadent touch.
Can I freeze vegan French toast casserole?
Yes! Once the casserole has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
This vegan French toast casserole is a delightful way to impress your brunch guests or enjoy a cozy weekend breakfast. It’s packed with flavor, incredibly satisfying, and sure to become a new family favorite!
