French Toast Casserole

1 long French bread loaf or Challah bread (available on Fridays at some
stores)
8 eggs
3 cups of milk
4 tablespoons sugar ( we omit this)
1 tablespoon vanilla
2 tablespoons butter
Optional: 1 teaspoon cinnamon, cardamom, and/or nutmeg, sprinkled in the liquid or on the top layer when the casserole is assembled .

Slice the bread into 1-inch thick slices. Layer bread into a buttered 9 X 13 inch casserole. Combine the other ingredients, except for the butter. Pour over the bread. Dot the top of the casserole with the butter. (This can be prepared up to two days ahead.) Put in a cold oven. Bake uncovered at
350 degrees for 45 to 50 minutes. Serves 8.

Julie DeMotte's recipe with thanks to Doug Beattie