Description
This Overnight French Toast Casserole is the ultimate time-saving breakfast! Simply prep it the night before, let the bread soak in a rich cinnamon-spiced custard, and bake in the morning. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a special treat, this casserole is an easy, flavorful dish everyone will love. Serve with syrup, fruit, or whipped cream for the perfect finishing touch!
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of brioche, challah, or French bread, cut into cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 tbsp melted butter
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for crunch)
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
- 4 oz cream cheese, cut into cubes (for a creamy twist)
Topping (for baking):
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Bread
- Cut your bread into bite-sized cubes and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Custard
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure every piece is soaked.
- Gently press the bread down with a spatula so it absorbs the liquid.
Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 5: Add Topping and Bake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until golden and set.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings like syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit.
Notes
Use stale bread – Fresh bread gets mushy, so let it sit out for a day before using.
Don’t oversoak – Too much liquid can make the casserole soggy.
Add a crunchy topping – Brown sugar and nuts add a delicious crispy texture.
Make it extra creamy – Add a layer of cream cheese for a richer bite.
Customize with flavors – Try Nutella, peanut butter, or caramel sauce for a fun twist!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes