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Overnight French Toast Casserole

The Overnight French Toast Casserole is a game-changing breakfast that’s perfect for busy mornings, holiday brunches, or special occasions. With layers of custard-soaked bread, warm spices, and a sweet, crunchy topping, this dish lets you prep the night before and wake up to a golden, ready-to-bake breakfast. The aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla filling your kitchen is the ultimate morning treat!

Why You’ll Love It

  • Make-ahead convenience: Assemble it the night before and bake in the morning.
  • Perfect bread options: French bread, brioche, or challah all soak up custard beautifully.
  • Rich, creamy custard: A blend of eggs, milk, and cream makes every bite luscious.
  • Sweet, crunchy topping: Brown sugar and spices create a caramelized, golden crust.
  • Customizable: Add fruits, nuts, or seasonal flavors for a personal touch.

Ingredients

French Toast Base

  • 1 loaf French bread, brioche, or challah (stale or day-old preferred)
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Cinnamon Crunch Topping

  • 1 1/2 sticks butter, softened
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon light corn syrup (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Optional Add-Ins: Chopped pecans, walnuts, blueberries, raspberries, or sliced apples.

Instructions

1. Prep the Bread

  • Slice bread into 1-inch thick pieces.
  • For fresh bread, dry in a 275°F oven for 10 minutes to prevent sogginess.

2. Make the Custard

  • Whisk together eggs, half-and-half, milk, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.

3. Assemble the Casserole

  • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Arrange bread slices in a single layer, slightly overlapping.
  • Pour custard evenly over bread and press lightly to soak.
  • Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least 4 hours.

4. Prepare the Topping

  • Mix butter, brown sugar, corn syrup (if using), cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • Spread evenly over soaked bread before baking.

5. Bake

  • Preheat oven to 350°F.
  • Cover with foil and bake 30 minutes.
  • Remove foil and bake another 25–30 minutes until top is golden and crisp.
  • Check doneness with a knife; it should come out clean.

Tips for the Perfect Casserole

  • Avoid sogginess: Use stale bread and ensure custard covers all slices.
  • Creamy yet crisp: Bake covered first, then uncovered for a golden top.
  • Enhance flavor: Add almond extract, cardamom, or other spices.
  • Adjust sweetness: Reduce sugar or add fresh fruit to balance richness.

Serving Suggestions

  • Drizzle with maple syrup or dust with powdered sugar.
  • Top with whipped cream for indulgence.
  • Pair with fresh fruit, bacon, or sausages.
  • Enjoy with coffee, tea, or fresh juice.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
  • Microwave: Reheat individual servings 30–60 seconds.
  • Oven: 350°F for 20 minutes, uncovered last few minutes for crispiness.
  • Freezing: Freeze before or after baking for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before baking/reheating.

Variations

  • Gluten-Free: Use a sturdy gluten-free bread.
  • Dairy-Free: Substitute milk/cream with almond, oat, or coconut milk; use vegan butter.
  • Seasonal Flavors:
    • Pumpkin Spice: Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice.
    • Berry Mix: Stir in fresh or frozen berries for a fruity twist.

FAQs

Can I use fresh bread?
Yes, but dry it first to prevent sogginess.

Can I make and bake the same day?
Yes, allow at least 4 hours of soaking. Overnight soaking gives the best texture.

Best toppings?
Maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, fresh fruit, or nuts.

How long do leftovers last?
Up to 4 days in the fridge; freeze up to 3 months.