Imagine waking up to the most heavenly aroma of cinnamon, maple, and freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen - without any animal products! This Vegan Overnight Baked French Toast Casserole is about to revolutionize your breakfast game, transforming ordinary mornings into extraordinary culinary experiences. Perfect for lazy weekend brunches, family gatherings, or when you simply want to treat yourself to something spectacularly delicious, this recipe proves that plant-based eating can be mind-blowingly scrumptious and incredibly easy to prepare.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread (vegan)
- 2 cups almond milk
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup walnuts (chopped)
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. You will need 1 loaf of vegan bread, 2 cups of almond milk, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, 1/4 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond milk, maple syrup, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Make sure there are no lumps from the flour.
- Next, take your loaf of vegan bread and cut it into 1-inch cubes. You can use any type of vegan bread you prefer, such as whole grain, sourdough, or brioche.
- Add the cubed bread to the mixing bowl with the almond milk mixture. Gently fold the bread cubes into the liquid until all pieces are well-coated. Allow the bread to soak in the mixture for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even absorption.
- While the bread is soaking, prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with a bit of oil or vegan butter to prevent sticking.
- After the bread has soaked, pour the entire mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly over the top of the bread mixture. This will add a nice crunch and flavor to your casserole.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes covered to allow the casserole to set and cook through.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set a little more and make it easier to cut.
- Serve warm, drizzled with additional maple syrup if desired, and enjoy your delicious vegan overnight baked French toast casserole!
Tips
- Bread Selection Matters: Choose a sturdy, day-old vegan bread that can absorb the liquid mixture without falling apart. Sourdough or thick-cut artisan bread works best.
- Soaking Time is Crucial: Allow the bread to soak thoroughly in the almond milk mixture for at least 10 minutes, but don't oversoak to prevent a mushy texture.
- Customize Your Toppings: While walnuts are delicious, feel free to experiment with other nuts like pecans or almonds, or add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate, then bake in the morning for an effortless breakfast.
- Check for Doneness: The top should be golden brown and slightly crispy, with the interior remaining moist and custardy.
- Serve Immediately: This casserole is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, when the textures are at their peak.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
