French Toast Casserole

Make certain to use 1 to 2 day-old bread for this, I strongly suggest not to double the amounts and bake in a larger baking dish, make two separate recipes and bake in two 8 x 8-inch casserole dishes, if you prefer a sweeter taste then increase the sugar amount.

• Ready In: 55 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 6  cups  day-old  bread cubes
• 1⁄2 cup raisins (optional)
• 4  large eggs
• 1 1⁄2 cups milk or 1 1⁄2 cups half-and-half cream
• 4  tablespoons brown sugar, divided (can use more)
• 1⁄8 teaspoon salt
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons vanilla
• 6  teaspoons butter, cubed (1-1/2 tablespoon)
• 1 -2  teaspoon cinnamon
•  maple syrup or   pancake syrup

Directions

1. Set oven to 350 degrees F (set oven rack to lowest position).
2. Generously grease an 8 x 8-inch baking pan.
3. Sprinkle the bread cubes into the baking pan, then sprinkle the raisins over the bread.
4. In a bowl whisk together the eggs with milk 2 tablespoons brown sugar, salt and vanilla; pour evenly over the bread cubes.
5. Sprinkle the butter cubes over the top.
6. Allow to stand for 15 minutes.
7. In s small bowl combine the remaining 2 tablespoons brown sugar with 1-2 teaspoons cinnamon; sprinkle over the top.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden.
9. Serve warm with maple syrup or pancake syrup.