Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

Easy and comforting, this Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways) is a delightful breakfast or dessert that everyone will love. It’s custardy, crispy, and incredibly delicious! With less than 10 ingredients, you can whip it up quickly or prepare it overnight. Perfect for brunches, special occasions, or a cozy family breakfast, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, you can easily make this casserole even on busy mornings.
• Custardy Delight: The combination of dairy-free milk and cornstarch gives a rich and creamy texture that everyone enjoys.
• Versatile Options: This recipe can be customized with your favorite toppings or add-ins like fruits or nuts.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
• Satisfying Vegan Option: Enjoy the classic flavors of French toast without any animal products—great for vegans and non-vegans alike.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your vegan French toast casserole effortlessly, gather these essential tools. Proper equipment ensures an easy cooking experience and perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish helps evenly cook your casserole, ensuring that it is perfectly golden brown and custardy throughout.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows you to easily combine ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: A whisk ensures all your wet ingredients blend smoothly, giving your casserole the right texture.

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

Gather all the ingredients listed above. Cut the stale bread into cubes and set aside.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the dairy-free milk, brown sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and black salt. Whisk until smooth.

Step 3: Combine with Bread Cubes

Pour the wet mixture over the bread cubes. Gently fold until all pieces are well coated. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes to absorb flavors.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, prepare your baking dish by greasing it with vegan butter.

Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish

Transfer your soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom.

Step 6: Prepare Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together all topping ingredients until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole base.

Step 7: Bake

Place your casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 8: Serve

Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with maple syrup or fresh fruit!

This Vegan French Toast Casserole is not only simple but also satisfying—perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

Serving your Vegan French Toast Casserole can elevate the breakfast experience, making it even more delightful. Here are two creative ways to serve this delicious dish.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Top with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of freshness.
• Banana Slices: Add some sliced bananas for creaminess and natural sweetness.
• Citrus Zest: A sprinkle of orange or lemon zest can brighten the flavors.

With Sweet Toppings

• Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm maple syrup over each serving for a classic touch.
• Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter on top for added richness and protein.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: A dollop of coconut whipped cream makes it extra indulgent.

How to Perfect Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

To achieve the best results with your Vegan French Toast Casserole, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Stale Bread: Opt for stale bread as it absorbs the custard mixture better, resulting in a perfect texture.
• Let It Soak: Allow your casserole to soak in the fridge overnight for enhanced flavor and consistency.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the custard mixture before baking; adjust sugar levels based on your preference.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for a unique flavor twist.

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

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

1. Vegan Sausages: These savory sausages provide a hearty contrast to the sweet casserole.
2. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado toast complements the textures beautifully while adding healthy fats.
3. Chia Pudding: A light chia pudding offers refreshing nutrition alongside rich French toast.
4. Breakfast Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes add crunch and are always a crowd-pleaser.
5. Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl packed with greens and fruits makes for a nutritious side.
6. Granola Parfait: Layer with yogurt and granola for a crunchy, creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways) can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using fresh bread: Fresh bread can lead to a soggy casserole. Use stale bread instead, as it absorbs the custard mixture better.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can alter the texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale and measuring cups for precision.
• Skipping the soaking time: Allowing the bread to soak in the custard is essential for flavor and texture. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.
• Overbaking: Baking too long can dry out the casserole. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the oven when it’s golden brown and set in the middle.
• Neglecting toppings: Toppings like nuts or fruits enhance flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; they add delightful crunch and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The casserole will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

• Wrap individual portions tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
• The casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months.

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 portions on medium power for about 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a non-stick pan over low heat, flipping occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use gluten-free bread?

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

How do I make this recipe nut-free?

You can substitute nuts with seeds or simply omit them if allergies are a concern.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning for a quick breakfast.

What variations can I try?

You can add fruits like berries or bananas, or spices like nutmeg to customize your casserole.

Final Thoughts

The Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways) is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With simple ingredients, you can easily customize it with your favorite toppings or flavors. Give this comforting breakfast dish a try, and enjoy its warm, satisfying taste!