Overnight French Toast Casserole
This Overnight French Toast Casserole is an easy and delicious make-ahead breakfast dish. With a rich custard, cinnamon, and a buttery topping, it’s perfect for holiday mornings, brunches, or family gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- - 1 loaf of French bread about 16 oz, cubed
- - 8 large eggs
- - 2 cups whole milk
- - 1/2 cup heavy cream
- - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- - 2 tsp vanilla extract
- - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- - 1/4 tsp salt
For the Topping:
- - 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- - 1/2 cup brown sugar
- - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- - 1/4 tsp nutmeg optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Casserole Base: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Place the cubed French bread evenly into the dish.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all the bread is soaked.
- Cover and Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 8 hours).
- Preheat Oven: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature while the oven heats.
- Make the Topping: In a medium bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using) until it forms a crumbly mixture.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup.
Notes
- Bread Choice: Day-old bread works best as it absorbs the custard more effectively.
- Customizations: Add fresh berries, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips to the casserole before baking.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.