Simple French Toast Casserole
French Toast Casserole is perfect for brunch or a special breakfast. It can be prepared ahead of time, making it convenient for gatherings. I love to make it whenever I have leftover French bread, donuts, muffins, and random bread, so I tend to make this dish during the week, especially, because you can prepare ahead of time. Breakfast for dinner fans this is an amazing addition!
French Toast Fun Facts
Here are some fun facts about French toast that you might enjoy:
Not Really French: Despite its name, French toast is believed to have originated long before France and was eaten by the ancient Romans. The term "French toast" is common in the United States and other English-speaking countries, but in France, it is called "pain perdu," which means "lost bread."
Historical Recipes: One of the earliest recorded recipes for French toast can be found in a Roman cookbook from the 4th or 5th century called "Apicius." The recipe used stale bread dipped in a mixture of milk and eggs.
Stale Bread Benefit: French toast was invented as a way to prevent wasting stale bread. The soaking in the egg mixture revitalizes the bread, making it both delicious and economical.
Cultural Variations: Many cultures have their own versions of French toast. For example, in Spain, there is "torrija," a popular dish during Holy Week, while in Italy, it's called "brioche alla francese." In Portugal, it’s known as "rabanadas."
Endless Variations: French toast can be made with different types of bread, such as brioche, challah, sourdough, or even croissants, which can dramatically change the texture and flavor. Additionally, people often add toppings like fruits, syrup, whipped cream, or even savory ingredients.
National French Toast Day: There’s a day dedicated to this delicious dish! National French Toast Day is celebrated on November 28th each year in the United States.
Regional Favorites: In New Orleans, a popular variation is “pain perdue,” which is often made with thick slices of day-old French bread and served as a brunch staple topped with powdered sugar, syrup, or fruit.
French Toast Casserole: This dish has evolved into casseroles, allowing for a convenient way to prepare French toast for larger gatherings. This variation often includes custard and is baked in a dish for a more decadent, hearty breakfast.
French Toast Challenges: Some regions have organized French toast festivals and competitions, where participants try to create the biggest or most extravagant French toast dishes.
Nutritious Options: While French toast can be a decadent treat, there are healthier variations available, such as using whole grain bread, adding nutritional ingredients like flaxseeds or chia seeds, and using less sugar or natural sweeteners.
French toast is not just a delicious breakfast item; it also has a rich history and cultural significance around the world. Whether sweet or savory, it's a versatile dish that continues to delight people of all ages! You can save the recipe from the recipes section on my Pinterest page.
