1loaf French breadbrioche, or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10-12 cups)
8large eggs
2cupswhole milk
1/2cupheavy creamoptional, for extra richness
1/2cupgranulated sugar
1/4cupbrown sugar
2teaspoonsvanilla extract
1teaspoonground cinnamon
1/4teaspoonground nutmeg
Pinchof salt
For the Topping:
1/2cupall-purpose flour
1/2cupbrown sugar
1teaspoonground cinnamon
1/4teaspoonground nutmeg
1/4teaspoonsalt
1/2cupunsalted buttercold and cut into pieces
Instructions
Prep the Night Before:
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Place the cubed bread evenly into the dish.
Make the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream (if using), granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are coated. Press down with a spatula to make sure the bread soaks up the egg mixture.
Cover and Refrigerate:
Cover the casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, allowing the bread to absorb the egg mixture.
Prepare the Topping (Optional):
In a small bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Add the cold butter pieces, and using a fork or pastry cutter, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Bake the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole and topping from the refrigerator. If you've prepared the crumb topping, sprinkle it evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed up, golden brown, and set in the center.
Serve:
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit on the side.