Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

Easy and comforting, this Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways) is perfect for breakfast or dessert! This dish is not only custardy and crispy but also a breeze to prepare. With less than 10 ingredients, you can whip up this delicious vegan breakfast even the night before. It’s great for brunch gatherings or cozy family mornings, offering a delightful twist on traditional French toast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This casserole requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy mornings.
• Deliciously Comforting: The combination of spices and sweet flavors makes every bite irresistible.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with your favorite toppings like maple syrup or fresh fruits.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and simply bake when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Ideal for brunch with family or friends, everyone will love this vegan take on a classic!

Tools and Preparation

To create this Vegan French Toast Casserole, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the process smooth and easy.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and allows you to serve directly from it.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter, ensuring all ingredients blend well for a perfect texture.

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Ingredients

To make the Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways), gather the following ingredients:

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: Prepare the Bread Mixture

First, cut your stale loaf of bread into cubes. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dairy-free milk, brown sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and black salt until well combined.

Step 2: Combine with Bread

Add the cubed bread to the mixture. Gently fold until all pieces are coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes so the bread absorbs some of the liquid.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

While your bread is soaking up the mixture, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your baking dish with some vegan butter will prevent sticking.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In another bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, chopped pecans, vegan butter, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until crumbly.

Step 5: Assemble

Transfer the soaked bread mixture into your greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the topping over it.

Step 6: Bake

Place in your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown on top. Enjoy warm!

How to Serve Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

Serving your Vegan French Toast Casserole can elevate your breakfast or brunch experience. Here are two delightful ways to enjoy this dish.

Classic Maple Syrup Drizzle

• Pour warm maple syrup over your casserole for a sweet and classic touch that enhances each bite.

Fresh Fruit Topping

• Add a variety of fresh fruits such as berries, bananas, or sliced apples. They add natural sweetness and a refreshing crunch.

Nut Butter Spread

• Serve with a dollop of almond or peanut butter for added creaminess and protein, making it even more satisfying.

Coconut Whipped Cream

• Top with coconut whipped cream for a light, fluffy finish that complements the spiced flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

Creating the perfect Vegan French Toast Casserole is easy with these helpful tips.

• Choose the right bread: Use a stale loaf of bread for the best texture, as it absorbs the custard mixture without becoming soggy.

• Allow time to soak: Let the casserole sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight to enhance flavor absorption.

• Use spices wisely: Adding extra cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile and create a warm, inviting aroma.

• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar according to your taste preferences for a more personalized touch.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan French Toast Casserole can create a satisfying meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balance to your meal.

2. Vegan Sausages: Plant-based sausages provide protein and savory contrast, complementing the sweet flavors of the casserole.

3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy side that adds depth to your breakfast spread.

4. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on whole-grain toast offers healthy fats and pairs well with sweet dishes.

5. Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds can be a nutritious addition alongside your casserole.

6. Chia Seed Pudding: This can be prepped in advance and serves as an excellent source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a vegan French toast casserole can be easy, but avoiding common pitfalls will ensure the best results.

• Using Fresh Bread – Fresh bread tends to be too soft and won’t absorb the custard mixture properly. Use stale bread for the best texture.
• Not Enough Spice – Skipping spices like cinnamon can lead to a bland dish. Don’t forget to add plenty of flavor with spices and extracts.
• Overmixing the Batter – Overmixing can create a tough texture. Mix just until combined to keep your casserole light and airy.
• Skipping the Overnight Soak – Not allowing the casserole to soak overnight may result in uneven cooking. Always let it sit for at least a couple of hours, or overnight if possible.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature – Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to burnt edges or undercooked centers. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperatures.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Heat on medium-low in a non-stick pan, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a vegan French toast casserole.

What is Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)?

This dish is a baked version of traditional French toast made without eggs or dairy, using plant-based ingredients instead.

Can I use gluten-free bread?

Yes, gluten-free bread works well in this recipe. Just ensure it’s stale for better absorption of the custard.

How do I customize my Vegan French Toast Casserole (2 ways)?

Feel free to add fruits like berries or bananas, or mix in nuts and seeds for added texture and flavor.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and simply bake it in the morning for an easy breakfast option.

Is there a way to make it sweeter?

You can increase the amount of brown sugar or add maple syrup as a topping before serving for extra sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan French Toast Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite fruits and nuts for added flair. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast or dessert, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Give it a try; you won’t regret it!