Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

Easy and comforting, this Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways) is a delightful breakfast treat that everyone can enjoy! With its custardy texture and crispy topping, this dish is perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts. You can even prepare it overnight for a hassle-free morning. Let’s dive into why this recipe will quickly become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious casserole ready for the oven in no time.
• Overnight Convenience: Prep it the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning—perfect for busy days or special occasions!
• Customizable Flavors: You can easily adjust the spices and toppings to suit your taste preferences, making each batch unique.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole serves eight, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or brunch with friends.
• Healthy Option: Made with wholesome ingredients, this vegan casserole is a nutritious way to start your day.

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Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth mixture, ensuring all ingredients are evenly blended.
• Baking dish: A sturdy dish ensures even cooking and easy serving.
• Oven mitts: Protects your hands from burns when handling hot dishes.

Ingredients

To create this scrumptious Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways), you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Casserole Base

• 450g (1 lb) stale loaf of bread
• 2 cups (500g) dairy-free milk
• 1/4 cup (50g) packed brown sugar (coconut sugar or granulated sugar)
• 3 tablespoons (25g) cornstarch / corn flour (or 3 tablespoons (35g) ground flax / chia seeds)
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon black salt (kala namak) (or ½ teaspoon any good quality salt)

For the Topping

• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose plain flour (or gluten free flour)
• 1/4 cup (25g) chopped pecans (chopped walnuts, seeds or 3 tablespoons (23g) more flour)
• 2 tablespoons (30g) vegan butter (spreadable vegan butter or coconut oil)
• 2 tablespoons (20g) packed light brown sugar (coconut sugar or granulated sugar)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. It’s important to use stale bread for optimal texture.

Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine dairy-free milk, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and black salt.
2. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Cube the Bread

• Cut your stale loaf of bread into bite-sized cubes and add them to the mixing bowl.
• Gently fold the bread into the mixture until fully coated.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

• Grease your baking dish with a little vegan butter.
• Pour the bread mixture into the greased dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

1. In a separate bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, chopped pecans, vegan butter, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until crumbly.
2. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.

Step 6: Bake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Enjoy your delicious Vegan French Toast Casserole as part of a delightful breakfast experience!

How to Serve Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

Serving your Vegan French Toast Casserole can enhance its flavors and make your breakfast or brunch even more delightful. Here are two delicious ways to enjoy this comforting dish.

With Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Add a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of freshness and color.
• Banana Slices: Top with sliced bananas for natural sweetness and added creaminess.
• Peach Chunks: Include fresh peaches in season for a juicy, aromatic addition.

With Sweet Toppings

• Maple Syrup: Drizzle pure maple syrup over the casserole for a classic sweet touch.
• Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter on top for healthy fats and protein.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for a rich, dairy-free indulgence.

How to Perfect Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

To make the best Vegan French Toast Casserole, follow these helpful tips that will ensure it turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Stale Bread: Stale bread soaks up the custard mixture better, resulting in a custardy texture.
• Let It Soak: Allow the casserole to sit for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the bread absorb the flavors fully.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust the sweetness according to your preference by adding more sugar or maple syrup.
• Bake Until Golden: Keep an eye on your casserole while it bakes. It should be golden brown on top for that perfect crispy finish.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan French Toast Casserole can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Crispy Hash Browns: These golden-brown potatoes provide a crunchy contrast to the soft casserole.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the casserole.
3. Vegan Sausages: Hearty plant-based sausages add protein and flavor, making your meal more filling.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer vegan yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy, satisfying side.
5. Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie topped with nuts and seeds offers both nutrition and variety.
6. Chia Pudding: This nutritious pudding adds texture and health benefits alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Vegan French Toast Casserole can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using fresh bread: Fresh bread can make your casserole soggy. Use stale bread instead for the best texture.
• Not measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial for success. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure consistency.
• Skipping the overnight soaking: This step is essential for flavor and texture. Allow your casserole to soak overnight for optimal results.
• Overbaking: Cooking too long can dry out the dish. Keep an eye on it and test for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.
• Ignoring flavor additions: Don’t forget about spices and sweeteners! They enhance the overall taste, so be generous with cinnamon and vanilla.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best quality.

Freezing Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a non-stick pan over medium heat, flipping until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vegan French Toast Casserole.

Can I make Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways) gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free bread and flour substitutes to enjoy this dish without gluten.

How do I customize my Vegan French Toast Casserole?

You can add fruits like berries or bananas, nuts, or even chocolate chips for extra flavor.

What type of bread works best?

Stale loaf breads like challah or sourdough work wonderfully due to their texture and flavor absorption.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning.

Final Thoughts

Vegan French Toast Casserole is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different toppings or flavors to suit your taste. Enjoy its comforting warmth at breakfast or as a delightful dessert!