Introduction
Brunch lovers rejoice! If you’re tired of the same old French toast and looking to jazz up your weekend mornings, then you’re in for a treat. Say hello to Panettone French Toast Casserole with Brown Sugar Topping – a mouthwatering fusion of Italian tradition and classic American breakfast. This recipe takes the beloved Panettone bread, typically enjoyed during the holidays, and transforms it into a decadent breakfast casserole that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
What is Panettone?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about Panettone. Originating from Milan, Italy, Panettone is a sweet bread loaf traditionally served during Christmas and New Year’s. It’s characterized by its dome shape, fluffy texture, and rich flavor profile, featuring ingredients like candied fruits and raisins. Panettone has become a staple in holiday celebrations around the world, beloved for its unique taste and festive appeal.
Ingredients: Before you start salivating, let’s gather our ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 1 Panettone loaf, preferably a day or two old
- 6 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the Brown Sugar Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions: Now that we have everything we need, let’s get cooking!
Prepare the Panettone
Start by slicing the Panettone loaf into thick slices, about 1-inch thick. Arrange the slices in a single layer in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
Soak the Panettone
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the Panettone slices, ensuring that each slice is fully coated. Press down gently on the slices to help them soak up the mixture. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.
Prepare the Brown Sugar Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold unsalted butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish and sprinkle the prepared brown sugar topping evenly over the soaked Panettone slices.
Bake and Serve
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set in the center. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve and Enjoy
Slice the Panettone French Toast Casserole into squares and serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit, if desired. Enjoy the irresistible combination of fluffy Panettone bread and indulgent brown sugar topping!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Panettone French Toast Casserole with Brown Sugar Topping is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. With its blend of Italian charm and American comfort, this dish is sure to become a new brunch staple in your household. So why wait for the holidays to enjoy Panettone? Whip up this delicious casserole any time of year and treat yourself to a slice of culinary heaven.
FAQs:
1. Can I use any type of Panettone for this recipe? While traditional Panettone works best, you can experiment with different flavors like chocolate chip or orange zest to add a unique twist to your casserole.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just be sure to add the brown sugar topping right before baking for the best results.
3. Can I freeze leftover Panettone French Toast Casserole? Yes, you can freeze any leftovers for later enjoyment. Simply wrap the cooled casserole slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven or microwave.
4. Can I substitute the whole milk with a non-dairy alternative? Yes, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other non-dairy milk of your choice in place of whole milk. The result may vary slightly in flavor and texture, but it should still be delicious.
5. Can I add additional toppings to the casserole? Absolutely! Get creative with your toppings by adding chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flavor and texture. The possibilities are endless!