Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

Easy and comforting, this Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways) is perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Its custardy texture and crispy top make it a delightful dish that everyone will enjoy. With less than 10 ingredients needed, you can prepare this delicious vegan meal even the night before, making it suitable for busy mornings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a delicious breakfast with minimal effort.
• Versatile Options: This casserole can be customized with your favorite fruits or nuts to suit any taste preference.
• Overnight Convenience: Prepare it the night before and simply bake it in the morning for an easy breakfast option.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar creates a comforting flavor that delights all ages.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome components like dairy-free milk and whole grains, this recipe is both nourishing and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways), some essential tools will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients evenly, ensuring a well-mixed batter.
• Baking dish: A good quality baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of your casserole.
• Whisk: This tool helps achieve a smooth mixture without lumps, which is key for a custardy texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to consistent results every time you make this recipe.

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Ingredients

Easy and comforting baked vegan french toast casserole which is custardy, crispy and so delicious! You’ll need less than 10 ingredients to make this vegan breakfast and it can even be prepared overnight.

For the 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: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Tear the stale bread into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the dairy-free milk, brown sugar, cornstarch/corn flour, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and black salt until smooth.
3. Pour this mixture over the bread pieces. Gently stir until all bread is coated well.

Step 3: Assemble in Baking Dish

Grease your baking dish with a little vegan butter. Transfer the bread mixture into the dish evenly. Press down slightly to ensure an even layer.

Step 4: Prepare Topping

In a small bowl:
1. Combine all-purpose flour, chopped pecans, vegan butter, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon.
2. Mix until crumbly.
3. Sprinkle this topping over the assembled bread mixture in the baking dish.

Step 5: Bake

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top. Once done, let it cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Vegan French Toast Casserole at brunches or cozy family breakfasts!

How to Serve Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

Vegan French Toast Casserole is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are two popular serving suggestions that will elevate this comforting breakfast or dessert.

Classic Maple Syrup Drizzle

• Pour warm maple syrup over each serving for a touch of sweetness.
• Add fresh berries on top for a burst of flavor and color.

Nutty Topping Delight

• Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Drizzle with a vegan butter mixture to enhance the richness.

How to Perfect Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

Creating the perfect Vegan French Toast Casserole is simple with a few tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your casserole turns out delicious every time.

• Choose the right bread: Use stale bread for the best texture. A dense loaf will absorb the custard well without becoming mushy.
• Let it soak: Allow the mixture to sit for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the bread soak up all the flavors.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your preference. You can always add more toppings later!
• Watch baking time: Keep an eye on your casserole while it bakes. You want a golden-brown top that’s crispy but not burnt.

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

Pair your Vegan French Toast Casserole with these delicious side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Each option complements the casserole beautifully.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the casserole.
2. Vegan Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy, crunchy side.
3. Cinnamon Apples: Sauté sliced apples with cinnamon and a hint of maple for a warm, spiced addition.
4. Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits and top with seeds or nuts for a refreshing contrast.
5. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on whole-grain toast provides healthy fats and pairs nicely with sweet flavors.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes offer a hearty side that balances the meal’s sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Vegan French Toast Casserole can be simple, but there are common errors that can affect the final dish. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Using Fresh Bread: Fresh bread absorbs liquid differently and may not yield the desired custardy texture. Use stale bread for the best results.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Inaccurate measurements can throw off the balance of flavors and textures. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Skipping the Soaking Time: If you don’t let the bread soak long enough in the custard mixture, it may turn out dry. Ensure you allow ample time for soaking.
• Ignoring Flavor Enhancements: Neglecting spices like cinnamon or vanilla can lead to a bland casserole. Don’t skip these essential ingredients for maximum flavor.
• Overbaking: Baking too long can dry out your casserole. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness to maintain moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow to cool before placing it in the fridge to prevent condensation.

Freezing Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date before freezing for easy tracking.

Reheating Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over medium heat, flipping until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Vegan French Toast Casserole recipe:

What is Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)?

Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways) is a delightful baked dish made without eggs or dairy, offering a custardy and crispy texture perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Can I use gluten-free bread?

Yes, using gluten-free bread works well in this recipe. Just ensure it’s stale for optimal soaking.

How do I customize my Vegan French Toast Casserole?

You can add fruits like berries or bananas, nuts, or even chocolate chips to enhance flavors and textures.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prep it the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it in the morning for a quick breakfast.

What can I serve with Vegan French Toast Casserole?

Pair with maple syrup, fresh fruits, or a dollop of dairy-free yogurt for added flavor and creaminess.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan French Toast Casserole is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite add-ins, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this delicious recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!