Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast Casserole wafting through your kitchen, a delightful twist on a classic favorite that promises to elevate your breakfast game! This scrumptious dish combines the nostalgic flavors of childhood with the comfort of a warm, baked casserole, making it perfect for family gatherings or leisurely weekend brunches. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a total cooking time of under an hour, you’ll be serving up 8 generous portions of gooey, peanut buttery goodness in no time. Ready to impress your taste buds and those of your loved ones? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a new breakfast staple!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread
- 1 cup milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup jelly
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. If the bread is fresh, let the cubes sit out for 10-15 minutes to slightly dry out, which helps absorb the custard better.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.
- Spread peanut butter on one side of half the bread cubes. On the other half, spread jelly, creating matched pairs of bread cubes.
- Layer the peanut butter and jelly bread cubes into the prepared baking dish, creating a random but even distribution.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are moistened. Gently press down with a spatula to help absorption.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Serve warm, optionally with additional maple syrup or fresh berries on the side.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, opt for a sturdy bread like challah, brioche, or sourdough. These types hold up well when soaked in the custard mixture.
- Let the Bread Sit: If using fresh bread, allow the cubed pieces to sit out for 10-15 minutes before assembling the casserole. This slight drying helps them absorb the egg mixture more effectively.
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to switch up the flavors! Try using different types of nut butter or fruit preserves to create your own unique combinations.
- Press for Absorption: After pouring the egg and milk mixture over the bread cubes, gently press down with a spatula. This helps ensure every piece is soaked and flavorful.
- Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering the casserole with foil during the first half of baking helps it cook evenly without burning the top. Remove the foil later for that perfect golden crust!
- Serve with Style: Dust the finished casserole with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance, and consider serving it with maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
