Pretzel French Toast Casserole Recipe
This Pretzel French Toast Casserole combines the salty crunch of pretzel bread bites with a rich, custardy base infused with vanilla and cinnamon. Perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch, it bakes to a golden brown and can be served with maple syrup and powdered sugar for a sweet contrast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes to overnight soaking time (active cooking time 45 minutes)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast & Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
For the Casserole:
- Butter for greasing the dish
- 20 oz pretzel bread bites
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For Serving (Optional):
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Maple syrup for drizzling
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, lemon curd, fresh fruit
Instructions
- Grease the baking dish: Thoroughly butter a 3-quart (9×13-inch) baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Prepare the bread cubes: Slice the pretzel bread bites into cubes and evenly spread them in the buttered dish, ensuring a uniform layer.
- Make the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, pinch of salt, and ground cinnamon until smooth and well combined.
- Combine bread and custard: Pour the custard evenly over the pretzel bread cubes. Gently press down on the bread to ensure it soaks up the custard mixture thoroughly.
- Chill to absorb flavors: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; for best results, let it chill overnight to deepen the flavors.
- Preheat the oven: When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge and discard the plastic wrap. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the casserole: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is fully set. If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil to prevent burning and continue baking.
- Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup. Add optional toppings such as whipped cream, lemon curd, or fresh fruit for an extra special touch.
Notes
- For best texture and flavor, allow the casserole to chill overnight so the pretzel cubes absorb the custard thoroughly.
- If using different types of bread, adjust soaking time accordingly.
- Covering with foil during baking helps prevent over-browning if the top cooks too quickly.
- Serves well with a variety of toppings; adjust sweetness to taste.
Keywords: pretzel french toast casserole, breakfast casserole, baked french toast, brunch recipe, pretzel bread breakfast
