Description
Overnight Baked French Toast Casserole is a rich and comforting make-ahead breakfast dish, perfect for busy mornings and holiday gatherings. With warm cinnamon and vanilla flavors, a crispy top, and a soft custardy interior, this easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf bread (brioche, challah, or French bread), cut into cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 4 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces
- Maple syrup (optional, for serving)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh berries or nuts (optional toppings)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Arrange the cubed bread in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Make the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently to help absorption.
- Refrigerate: Cover with plastic wrap and chill overnight (or at least 4 hours).
- Preheat and Bake: Remove from the refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Add Butter and Bake: Dot the top with butter and bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, until golden brown and set.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and serving with maple syrup, berries, or nuts.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Microwave individual portions for 30-45 seconds or bake at 300°F for 10-15 minutes.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute almond or coconut milk and use dairy-free butter.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free bread.
- Savory Variation: Omit sugar and vanilla, and add cheese, cooked bacon, or sautéed vegetables
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- chill time: 4+ hours (overnight preferred)
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: French toast casserole, overnight breakfast, baked French toast, make-ahead brunch, easy breakfast recipe