French Toast Casserole

French Toast Casserole

This is such a quick and easy way to enjoy the flavors of french toast for a crowd, rather than cooking up a bunch of individual slices of french toast.  Savory breakfast casseroles are my favorite way to use up bread, meat, cheese and veggies that need to be eaten and this sweet version would be a great way to use up any expiring fruit.  The applesauce is not necessary, and could be replaced with extra milk, but I like using it to add some extra nutrition into the casserole.  I almost always make this the evening before and let it sit overnight so I can just pop it in the oven in the morning and have a hearty breakfast ready with minimal effort.  I sprinkled the top with a little powdered sugar to make it look pretty, but that step is entirely optional.  Serve with syrup for a hearty, soul soothing breakfast. 

-8 eggs
-2 c skim milk
-1/4 tsp salt
-1/2 c sugar
-1 c no sugar added applesauce
-1 Tbsp vanilla
-1 tsp cinnamon
-12 slices whole wheat sandwich bread, cut into cubes
-(optional) 2 c blueberries or other fruit, fresh or frozen, thawed if frozen

In medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, sugar, applesauce, vanilla and cinnamon.  Combine with bread cubes and fruit (if using), stirring until all of the bread has absorbed the egg/ milk mixture.  Pour into a greased 13x9 pan.  Bake at 350 for 35-45 minutes, until set.