Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe: Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast

Wake Up to Delicious: The Easiest Overnight French Toast Casserole

Imagine waking up to the smell of warm, sweet, and custardy French toast without having to lift a finger first thing in the morning! This Overnight French Toast Casserole recipe is a game-changer for busy mornings, special brunches, or anytime you need a comforting and impressive dish that requires minimal effort. This recipe lets the magic happen overnight!

Why You’ll Love It

• The overnight soak results in unbelievably soft, custardy bread that melts in your mouth.
• It’s incredibly easy to prepare – simply assemble the night before and bake in the morning.
• It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, making it ideal for holidays, brunches, or family gatherings.
• The flavor is customizable with different types of bread, spices, and toppings.
• You get a delightful balance of textures – a soft, eggy interior with a slightly crispy top.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets this overnight French toast apart is the extended soak time. This allows the bread to fully absorb the rich custard, creating a texture that is far more luxurious than typical French toast. We’re also using a touch of cinnamon and vanilla that permeates the whole dish, making it smell incredible and taste divine.

Ingredient List

• 1 loaf (about 1 pound) of challah, brioche, or Texas toast, cut into 1-inch cubes. (Challah and Brioche are perfect for custardy textures)
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended for best flavor)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted for greasing

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with the melted butter.
2. Arrange the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, making sure all the bread pieces are soaked.
5. Gently press the bread down with a spatula to ensure it is submerged.
6. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
9. Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
10. Remove cover and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
11. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Feel free to personalize your casserole with these delicious additions:

• Fresh berries: Add blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries before baking, or use them as a topping after.
• Streusel Topping: Combine 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup cold butter and cinnamon, crumble over the casserole before baking.
• Nutella Swirl: Drizzle melted Nutella over the top before baking for a chocolatey twist.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the overnight soak! It’s crucial for the best texture.
• Use a good quality bread that can withstand the soaking process without falling apart.
• Make sure all the bread pieces are fully submerged in the custard to ensure even soaking.
• Allowing the casserole to sit for 15 minutes at room temperature before baking helps it cook more evenly.
• Don’t overbake – the center should be set and the top should be golden brown.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use different types of bread?
  Yes, you can use any bread that is sturdy enough to hold its shape when soaked. Challah, brioche, Texas toast, or even a baguette work great.
• Can I prepare this a few days in advance?
  No, the soaking time is optimal for overnight. Preparing too far in advance can cause the bread to become soggy.
• Can I substitute milk?
  Yes, but whole milk will give the richest flavor and creamiest texture. You can use 2%, almond, or oat milk as well, though the final result might be slightly less rich.
• How do I know when the French toast casserole is done?
  The top should be golden brown, and the center should be set. Gently press with a spoon – if it doesn’t jiggle and the custard is set, it’s ready.
• Can I add nuts?
  Yes, you can add chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for extra texture and flavor.

Variations and Customization Options

Personalize this French toast casserole with these delicious options:

• Spiced Apple: Add sliced apples and a dash of extra cinnamon to the custard.
• Lemon Blueberry: Add lemon zest and fresh blueberries.
• Pumpkin Spice: Use pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice and a dash of maple syrup in the custard.
• Chocolate Lover’s: Add cocoa powder and chocolate chips to the custard.
• Savory French Toast: Skip the sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon, add a mix of herbs, and try using shredded cheese to the custard.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Overnight French Toast Casserole warm, right out of the oven or after a few minutes to cool. It’s delicious on its own, or you can serve it with a variety of accompaniments. Try a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a side of fresh fruit. It’s also great with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a full brunch experience. This also pairs well with freshly squeezed juice or a morning coffee!

Conclusion

This Overnight French Toast Casserole is the perfect recipe for anyone who loves delicious and easy breakfasts. The overnight soak creates a luxuriously soft texture and the customizable flavor options make it a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and share your creations! Don’t forget to subscribe for more tasty and easy recipes.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• Tex-Mex Breakfast Casserole
• Eggs and Tomato Breakfast Melts

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