French Toast Casserole

Prep Steps

• 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature {do:soften}

The Bread

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut into 1-inch cubes and set aside in a large bowl...

• 1 loaf French bread

Cream Cheese Coating

In a stand mixer, beat together until smooth...

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp confectioners sugar
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

Fold the cream cheese mixture into the bread cubes until they're all coated.

Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish and spread the bread evenly in it.

The Custard

In a bowl, whisk together...

• 8 large eggs
• 2 1/4 cups milk
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2/3 cup brown sugar

Pour evenly over the bread, making sure every piece is covered.

Crumb Topping

In a bowl, cut together with a pastry blender or fork until crumbly...

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 8 tbsp unsalted butter, cold

Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the casserole.

Bake

Bake 45–50 minutes, until puffed and golden. Serve warm, drizzled with...

• Maple syrup (optional)