French Toast Casserole is ideal for entertaining allowing you to feed a crowd and still enjoy your company. You have the flexibility to prepare ahead or the morning of, then pop it in the oven to bake. A delicious casserole that will please everyone at the table.If preparing and baking the same morning, let it sit for 15 - 30 minutes while the oven preheats.
Pour half of the melted butter (4 tablespoons) into a 9x13 inch baking dish and coat the bottom and sides.
Slice the bread into ¾ inch slices.
Place the slices in the baking dish overlapping each piece. Lift and tuck to aid in fitting the slices in the baking dish. Do not press down or squish bread.
Combine 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 2 tablespoons sugar in a small bowl. Slowly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar over the bread. Lift up the slices to cover every piece.
Whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla or bourbon, salt, and remaining cinnamon and sugar in a large bowl. If you have a large measuring cup, use it instead for ease of pouring.
Slowly pour the liquid all over the bread, lifting each slice to ensure the liquid covers the surface. Lightly press down a little to allow the bread to soak up the liquid.
Drizzle the melted butter on top covering the casserole.
At this point, you can cover with wrap and place in the refrigerator overnight. Let it sit out while the oven preheats.
When you're ready to bake:
Preheat oven to 350°.
Bake for 40 - 50 minutes. The casserole will be puffed, but will start to deflate after it's removed from the oven.