Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

Easy and comforting, this Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways) is a delightful dish perfect for breakfast or dessert. It combines crispy edges with a custardy center, making it incredibly delicious and satisfying. With less than 10 ingredients, this casserole can even be prepared overnight, making it ideal for busy mornings or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious casserole in no time.
• Customizable Flavors: Adjust the sweetness and spices to suit your taste, making it versatile for different preferences.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Serve it at brunches or family gatherings; it’s sure to impress everyone!
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like dairy-free milk and whole grain bread, this dish is both nutritious and indulgent.
• Easily Make-Ahead: Prepare the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning for an effortless breakfast option.

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Tools and Preparation

To create this Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways), you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: This tool helps to blend the liquid ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a smooth batter.

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 the Bread

1. Start by cutting the stale bread into bite-sized cubes.
2. Place the bread cubes into a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Batter

1. In another bowl, whisk together the dairy-free milk, brown sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and black salt until well combined.
2. Pour this mixture over the bread cubes and gently fold until all pieces are soaked.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Transfer the soaked bread mixture into a greased baking dish.
3. In a small bowl, mix together all topping ingredients until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden brown on top.
2. Allow cooling slightly before serving warm with maple syrup or fruit toppings.

Enjoy your delicious Vegan French Toast Casserole!

How to Serve Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

Vegan French Toast Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you prefer it sweet or savory, there are numerous toppings and accompaniments to enhance the flavors of this delicious breakfast treat.

Sweet Serving Suggestions

• Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm maple syrup over the casserole for a classic touch of sweetness.
• Fresh Berries: Top with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of freshness and color.
• Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter on top for added creaminess and flavor.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for a decadent finish.

Savory Serving Suggestions

• Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the top for a crunchy texture.
• Fruit Compote: Add a warm fruit compote made from apples or pears for an exciting flavor twist.
• Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Mix cinnamon with sugar and sprinkle it on top before baking for an extra sweet crunch.
• Greek Yogurt: A scoop of dairy-free Greek yogurt can add creaminess and protein to your meal.

How to Perfect Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

To achieve the ultimate Vegan French Toast Casserole, follow these simple tips to ensure your dish comes out perfectly every time.

• Choose Stale Bread: Using stale bread helps the casserole absorb the custard mixture better, resulting in a custardy texture.
• Let It Soak: Allow the bread to soak in the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) to enhance flavor and texture.
• Use Spices Generously: Don’t skimp on spices; adding more cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the overall taste significantly.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your casserole while baking to ensure it doesn’t become overly dry; aim for a golden-brown top.

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

Pairing your Vegan French Toast Casserole with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the casserole.
2. Vegan Sausages: Crispy vegan sausages provide protein and heartiness, making it a fulfilling breakfast.
3. Chia Pudding: A creamy chia pudding topped with fruits can serve as a nutritious side that’s easy to prepare ahead of time.
4. Smoothie Bowl: Blend up your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with granola for added crunch.
5. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado toast adds healthy fats and complements the sweet flavors beautifully.
6. Granola Parfait: Layer granola with dairy-free yogurt and fruits for an enticing contrast in textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways) can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using fresh bread: Fresh bread can lead to a soggy casserole. Use stale bread for better texture and flavor.
• Skipping overnight soaking: Not letting the casserole soak overnight may result in unevenly cooked bread. Allow it to rest for at least 4 hours or overnight.
• Overbaking: Overcooking can dry out the casserole. Keep an eye on the baking time and remove it when it’s golden and slightly firm.
• Ignoring spice balance: Too much or too little cinnamon can throw off the flavor. Stick to the recommended amount and adjust according to your taste.
• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient dairy-free milk can lead to a dry casserole. Ensure you measure accurately for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways).

Can I use gluten-free bread for this recipe?

Yes, gluten-free bread works well. Just ensure it is stale before using.

How do I make this Vegan French Toast Casserole nut-free?

To make it nut-free, simply omit the pecans and use sunflower seeds or additional flour as a substitute.

What toppings go well with Vegan French Toast Casserole?

You can top it with fresh fruits, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added sweetness.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning for a quick breakfast option.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways) is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite fruits or spices, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy its warm, comforting flavors that everyone will love!