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Savory Bourbon Maple Bacon French Toast Casserole

bourbon maple bacon french toast casserole - featured image
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A cozy and comforting breakfast casserole combining smoky bacon, sweet maple syrup, and a subtle bourbon kick, soaked overnight for a custardy center and crispy edges.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (about 12 oz/340 g) thick-cut brioche or challah, cubed
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
  • 6 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) good-quality bourbon (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) pure maple syrup
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally. Drain on paper towels and chop into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cut the brioche or challah loaf into 1-inch cubes. If fresh, toast lightly in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to dry slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, bourbon, maple syrup, vanilla extract, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
  4. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with melted butter. Spread half the bread cubes evenly in the dish, sprinkle half the bacon over the bread, then repeat layers.
  5. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and bacon layers. Press down gently to help bread absorb custard. Cover with plastic wrap or foil.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, to soak.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove casserole from fridge and let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  8. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until top is golden and custard is set (knife inserted should come out clean).
  9. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Soaking the casserole overnight is crucial for a custardy texture. Use thick-cut brioche or challah for best results. If avoiding alcohol, omit bourbon and add extra vanilla and smoked paprika. Reheat leftovers in oven to restore crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: bourbon, maple syrup, bacon, French toast casserole, breakfast casserole, brunch, savory breakfast

Find it online: https://eliplate.com/savory-bourbon-maple-bacon-french-toast-casserole-easy-breakfast-recipe/