French toast casserole is the ultimate comfort food for breakfast or brunch. It’s warm, satisfying, and packed with flavors that make your morning feel special. But what if you could enjoy all the indulgent, comforting flavors of French toast without using eggs or dairy? Enter vegan French toast casserole—a plant-based twist on the beloved classic. This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a fluffy, golden casserole that’s just as delicious as the traditional version, but without any animal products.
This vegan French toast casserole is perfect for a crowd or for meal prep, and it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings and mix-ins. Whether you’re vegan or simply looking to enjoy a healthier breakfast, this casserole will satisfy your cravings for something warm and comforting. Let’s dive into how to make this vegan French toast casserole that’s as indulgent as it is plant-based.
1. Why Vegan French Toast Casserole is a Must-Try
French toast casserole is a breakfast classic that combines the richness of custard with the sweetness of cinnamon and vanilla. The beauty of this dish is that it can be prepared the night before, making it a great option for busy mornings or for serving a crowd. But what makes vegan French toast casserole special? Here are a few reasons why this plant-based version is a must-try:
Comforting and Indulgent
Even without eggs or dairy, this casserole is every bit as rich, warm, and indulgent as the traditional version. The combination of cinnamon, vanilla, and maple syrup creates a comforting flavor profile that is guaranteed to please.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Vegan French toast casserole is easy to prepare in advance, making it ideal for meal prepping. You can assemble it the night before, refrigerate it, and then bake it in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
This casserole is great for family breakfasts, brunches, or gatherings. It’s an easy way to serve multiple people without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s naturally vegan, so everyone can enjoy it!
Customizable
One of the best parts of this recipe is how customizable it is. You can add your favorite fruits, nuts, or even dairy-free chocolate chips to the casserole. The flavor possibilities are endless!
2. Essential Ingredients for Vegan French Toast Casserole
Making vegan French toast casserole requires simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, so you probably already have them in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
Bread
The base of any French toast casserole is bread. For the best texture, choose a hearty bread that will soak up the custard without falling apart. Day-old bread works best because it has had time to dry out, which helps it absorb the custard mixture. You can use sourdough, French bread, or whole wheat bread for a more wholesome option. If you want a sweeter twist, cinnamon raisin bread is a great choice.
Non-Dairy Milk
To replace the eggs and dairy, you’ll use non-dairy milk in the custard mixture. Any plant-based milk will work, such as almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Choose one that fits your flavor preference, but make sure it’s unsweetened so the casserole doesn’t end up too sweet.
Vegan Butter
Vegan butter adds richness and flavor to the casserole. You can also use coconut oil if you prefer, but vegan butter will give you a more traditional taste and texture.
Sweeteners
For sweetness, you’ll need a bit of maple syrup or agave syrup. Maple syrup gives the casserole a warm, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon. You can also add a bit of brown sugar to enhance the caramelized flavor.
Cinnamon and Vanilla Extract
Cinnamon and vanilla extract are key flavoring ingredients in the custard. The cinnamon adds warmth and spice, while the vanilla enhances the sweetness of the dish. These two ingredients together make the casserole smell absolutely divine while it bakes.
Cornstarch (Optional)
For a thicker, custard-like filling, you can add cornstarch to the custard mixture. It helps to bind the ingredients and gives the casserole a rich, creamy texture. This step is optional but recommended if you want a more traditional custard texture.
Toppings and Mix-ins (Optional)
While the casserole is delicious on its own, there are many ways to add even more flavor and texture. Here are a few options:
- Fresh fruit (such as berries, banana slices, or apples)
- Nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- Shredded coconut
- Vegan whipped cream or coconut cream
- Dairy-free chocolate chips
3. How to Make Vegan French Toast Casserole
Making vegan French toast casserole is easy and straightforward. You can prepare the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning, making it the perfect breakfast option for busy days or special occasions. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Start by cutting your bread into cubes (about 1-inch pieces). If you’re using fresh bread, toast it lightly in the oven or on a skillet for a few minutes to dry it out. This will help the bread absorb the custard mixture without becoming soggy. Once your bread is ready, place it into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of non-dairy milk, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, 1/4 cup of melted vegan butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch (if using). Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved in the milk mixture to avoid lumps. Taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary, adding more maple syrup or sugar if you prefer a sweeter casserole.
Step 3: Soak the Bread
Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, making sure each piece of bread is well-soaked. Gently press down on the bread to ensure it absorbs the custard evenly. If you’re adding any mix-ins like raisins, chopped apples, or nuts, now is the time to sprinkle them over the bread.
Step 4: Let It Sit
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results. This allows the bread to fully soak up the custard, ensuring that the casserole will bake evenly.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). After the casserole has soaked, remove it from the fridge and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy, and the custard is set. The casserole should be firm to the touch but still slightly soft in the center.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with your favorite toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Serve warm and enjoy!
4. Variations and Customizations
While this vegan French toast casserole is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Here are a few variations to try:
Apple Cinnamon Vegan French Toast Casserole
Add diced apples and a sprinkle of brown sugar to the custard mixture for a cozy, autumn-inspired twist. The apples will soften and caramelize as the casserole bakes, adding a sweet and fruity element.
Chocolate Chip Vegan French Toast Casserole
For a decadent version, fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the bread mixture. The chocolate will melt into the casserole as it bakes, creating pockets of gooey goodness throughout.
Pumpkin Spice Vegan French Toast Casserole
For a fall-inspired casserole, replace the cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice and add pureed pumpkin to the custard. This gives the casserole a rich, spiced flavor and makes it perfect for autumn.
Berry Vegan French Toast Casserole
Top the casserole with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries before baking. You can also mix berries into the custard for a fruity burst in every bite.
5. Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Vegan French Toast Casserole
Use Stale Bread
Stale bread or day-old bread works best for French toast casserole because it soaks up the custard better without becoming soggy. If your bread is too fresh, lightly toast it in the oven to dry it out before assembling.
Customize the Flavor
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your flavorings! Add a pinch of nutmeg, a bit of maple extract, or even a splash of almond extract to the custard for unique flavors.
Let It Sit Overnight
For the best results, let the casserole sit in the fridge overnight. This gives the bread more time to soak up the custard, resulting in a creamy, well-baked casserole.
Add Crunchy Toppings
If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle granola or chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the top of the casserole before baking. This adds texture and flavor to each bite.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
2. Can I use other non-dairy milks?
Absolutely! Any non-dairy milk such as almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk will work. Choose the one you prefer for the best flavor.
3. How do I store leftover vegan French toast casserole?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven.
4. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
5. Can I add nuts or fruit to the casserole?
Yes! You can add chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) or fruit (like berries, bananas, or apples) to the bread mixture for added flavor and texture.
6. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! You can use gluten-free bread to make this casserole gluten-free. Just make sure the other ingredients, like the non-dairy milk, are also gluten-free.
7. Can I make the custard without cornstarch?
Yes, you can skip the cornstarch. It just helps thicken the custard a little more, but the casserole will still turn out delicious without it.
8. How do I make the casserole crispy on top?
For a crispier top, you can sprinkle a little bit of brown sugar or granola over the top before baking.
9. Can I make a smaller version?
Yes, you can halve the recipe and bake it in a smaller dish, such as an 8×8-inch pan or individual ramekins for personal-sized servings.
10. What’s the best way to serve this casserole?
Serve the casserole warm, topped with fresh fruit, nuts, and a drizzle of maple syrup or vegan whipped cream for extra indulgence.