Absolutely! Here’s a full, “big” version of your Cinnamon Streusel French Toast Casserole recipe with all the sections you requested—crafted to feel like a proper Valentine’s Day breakfast celebration. ❤️
Cinnamon Streusel French Toast Casserole
Introduction
Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to treat yourself and your loved ones to a breakfast that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make. This Cinnamon Streusel French Toast Casserole combines soft, buttery bread soaked in a cinnamon-vanilla custard and topped with a sweet, crunchy streusel. The best part? You can prep it the night before, so all you need to do on Valentine’s morning is pop it in the oven. It’s cozy, decadent, and absolutely perfect for sharing over coffee and conversation.
Whether it’s for a romantic morning or a family brunch, this recipe will make hearts (and taste buds) happy.
Ingredients
For the French Toast:
- 1 loaf of brioche, challah, or thick sandwich bread (about 12–14 slices)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Optional Garnishes:
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Fresh strawberries or raspberries
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- Slice the bread into thick pieces (~1 inch).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Arrange the bread slices in the dish, slightly overlapping.
Step 2: Make the Custard
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour the custard evenly over the bread, pressing down gently so all pieces absorb the liquid.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least 4 hours.
Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping
- In a small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add melted butter and stir until crumbly.
- Stir in nuts if using.
Step 4: Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the soaked bread.
- Bake 45–50 minutes until the top is golden brown and custard is set.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
Step 5: Serve
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup.
- Add fresh berries for a festive, Valentine’s touch.
Methods & Techniques
- Soaking Bread: Overnight soaking allows the custard to fully infuse the bread, creating a soft, custardy interior.
- Streusel Topping: Mixing cold butter with dry ingredients gives a crumbly, crunchy topping.
- Baking: Cover loosely with foil the first 20 minutes if you want a softer top; remove foil later for a golden crust.
History & Formation
French toast has roots dating back to ancient Rome, where bread was soaked in milk and eggs before frying. The casserole version became popular in America as a make-ahead breakfast solution for busy mornings and brunch gatherings. Adding a cinnamon streusel topping is a more modern twist, combining the cozy flavors of cinnamon rolls with classic French toast for maximum indulgence.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Streusel French Toast Casserole transforms a simple morning into a special occasion. With minimal morning effort and maximum flavor, it’s the ultimate Valentine’s Day breakfast for showing love through food.
For Lovers of Comfort & Sweetness
- Pairs beautifully with coffee, hot cocoa, or sparkling orange juice.
- Great for couples, families, or friends—because love deserves to be celebrated at the breakfast table.
Extra Tips for Lovers of French Toast Casseroles
- Use slightly stale bread for better custard absorption.
- Add chocolate chips between layers for extra indulgence.
- Swap in almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
If you want, I can also make a fancy “Valentine’s morning” version of this recipe with a heart-shaped presentation, pink glaze, and berry topping, perfect for Instagram-worthy brunch vibes. Would you like me to do that next?