Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe

This Overnight French Toast Casserole is a convenient and delicious breakfast option that can be prepared the night before. With layers of bread soaked in a rich custard mixture, it bakes up fluffy and golden in the morning.

Perfect for feeding a crowd or for special occasions, this dish can be easily customized with your favorite toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, or maple syrup.

Preparing the Perfect Overnight French Toast Casserole

Creating a delightful Overnight French Toast Casserole begins with selecting the right bread. French or challah bread works wonderfully, providing a soft texture that soaks up the custard beautifully.

Start by cutting the bread into cubes and arranging them evenly in a greased baking dish. This step sets the foundation for a fluffy and golden casserole that will impress everyone at the breakfast table.

Making the Custard Mixture

The custard is where the magic happens. Combine eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended, ensuring a smooth and creamy mixture.

Once the custard is ready, pour it over the bread cubes, making sure each piece is thoroughly soaked. Gently press down any floating bread to ensure even absorption, which is key to achieving that fluffy texture.

Chilling for Flavor Development

After combining the bread and custard, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. This chilling period allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, enhancing the flavors and ensuring a moist casserole.

Letting it sit overnight also means less morning prep, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or special occasions.

Baking to Perfection

The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and drizzle melted butter over the top of the casserole for added richness.

Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The aroma that fills your kitchen during baking is sure to whet everyone’s appetite!

Serving Suggestions

Once baked, allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.

For a finishing touch, garnish with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds vibrant flavors that complement the dish beautifully.

Creating a Cozy Breakfast Setting

To elevate your breakfast experience, set the table with a cozy atmosphere. A warm cup of coffee alongside the casserole creates an inviting scene.

With a fork ready for serving, your Overnight French Toast Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a delightful way to start the day, perfect for gatherings or a comforting family breakfast.

Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole

Golden Overnight French Toast Casserole topped with powdered sugar and fresh berries, served in a rustic dish.

This casserole features cubes of bread soaked in a mixture of eggs, milk, vanilla, and spices, then baked until perfectly set. The recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the night before and approximately 45 minutes to bake in the morning, serving 8 people.

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf of bread (French or challah), cut into cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • Powdered sugar for serving (optional)
  • Maple syrup for serving (optional)
  • Fresh berries or fruit for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place the cubed bread evenly in the dish.
  2. Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
  3. Combine: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Gently press down to submerge any floating bread.
  4. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
  5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and drizzle melted butter over the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
  6. Serve: Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and serving with maple syrup and fresh fruit, if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 8 servings
  • Calories: 320kcal
  • Fat: 15g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g