Overnight French Toast Casserole is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast dish that combines the rich flavors of classic French toast with the ease of a casserole. Perfect for brunches or holiday mornings, this dish is prepared the night before, allowing the bread to soak up a delicious custard mixture. In the morning, all you have to do is pop it in the oven! The result is a golden, slightly crisp top with a soft, custardy center, flavored with cinnamon, vanilla, and maple syrup. Topped with fresh berries or powdered sugar, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread or brioche, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- A pinch of salt
For the Topping (optional):
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the cubed bread in the dish, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and fully combined.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing the bread down lightly with a spatula to ensure all pieces are soaked. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours).
- Preheat the Oven: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Topping (Optional): In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, chopped pecans, melted butter, and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the soaked bread for an extra crunchy, sweet finish.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake the French toast casserole for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy while the inside remains soft.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, topped with fresh berries, powdered sugar, or maple syrup if desired.
Enjoy your Overnight French Toast Casserole, a delicious and easy breakfast perfect for special occasions or lazy weekend mornings!
