There is nothing more joyful than waking up on Christmas morning when my daughters are home for the holidays. When they were children, they would rise at the crack of dawn, or earlier! Now, as adults, I usually make it to the kitchen before them, just in time to pop this delicious casserole in the oven so it can cook while we open gifts together.
We always set the kitchen table the night before Christmas, with festive holiday-themed napkin rings and flowers. The coffee is freshly ground and ready. We no longer set out cookies and milk by the chimney, but instead tiptoe over to stuff stockings—always the last thing to we do. With the scene set and ready, we can all enjoy the morning together, and no one is tethered to the kitchen.
Delicious and decadent, this is a simple alternative to French toast, and some may say a cousin to bread pudding. This recipe can be made and baked immediately, however, the beauty of preparing it the night before is the ease of simply popping it in the oven in the morning so you can enjoy the festivities. It also allows the bread time to soak up the custard, which makes the inside even creamier and more decadent.
While we prefer plant-based milks, 2% or a combination that includes half and half is also quite delicious! Simply assemble the casserole, cover well, and refrigerate overnight. The next day-uncover, spoon the topping over the casserole, and bake.
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 40 min
Yield: Serves 6