Rebel Float French Toast Casserole (Printable Version)

Soft brioche, cinnamon custard, brown sugar crumble, and baked until golden for an indulgent brunch favorite.

# The Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Bread Base

01 - 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (approximately 16 ounces)
02 - Butter, for greasing baking dish

→ Custard Mixture

03 - 6 large eggs
04 - 2 cups whole milk
05 - 1 cup heavy cream
06 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
07 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
08 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
09 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
10 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Brown Sugar Crumble

11 - 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
12 - 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
13 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
14 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

→ Optional Toppings

15 - Powdered sugar, for dusting
16 - Maple syrup, for serving
17 - Fresh berries

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.
02 - Distribute the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully blended.
04 - Pour custard mixture over the bread cubes, pressing gently to immerse all bread. Allow to stand for 10 minutes for optimal absorption.
05 - Combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Incorporate cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until a crumbly texture forms.
06 - Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar crumble over the soaked bread mixture.
07 - Transfer to the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the surface is golden brown and the center is set.
08 - Allow to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and accompany with maple syrup and berries if desired.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Stale bread is ideal for maximizing custard absorption.
02 - Assembling the dish the night prior and refrigerating enhances texture.
03 - For added depth, stir a splash of bourbon into the custard.
04 - Half-and-half may be substituted for both milk and cream.