Overnight French Toast Casserole

Author: Naomi
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

The Overnight French Toast Casserole is an effortless and delicious way to enjoy a classic breakfast dish without the morning hassle. This recipe transforms the traditional French toast into a convenient, make-ahead casserole that is perfect for busy mornings, holidays, or special occasions.

ingredients

French Toast:

1 loaf French bread (or thick Texas toast), sliced

8 eggs

2 cups half and half

1/2 cup milk

3 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons pure 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

instructions

Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by coating the inside with butter or cooking spray. Arrange the bread slices in rows, overlapping slightly.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Pour the mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring all are well-coated. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Meanwhile, combine all topping ingredients in a medium bowl, mixing well. Spread the topping evenly over the soaked bread slices.

Bake for 35-40 minutes, until puffed and lightly golden.

notes

Bread Selection: Using stale or day-old bread such as French bread, brioche, or challah is crucial to prevent a soggy casserole. If using fresh bread, dry it out by cutting into cubes and baking at 275°F for about 10 minutes.
Custard Mixture: For a rich and creamy texture, use a combination of whole milk and heavy cream. Whisk the mixture thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Overnight Soak: Allowing the bread to soak overnight ensures that the custard is fully absorbed, resulting in a perfectly moist and flavorful casserole.
Topping Variations: Customize the topping with options like a cinnamon crunch topping, chopped nuts, or fresh fruits to add extra flavor and texture.
Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or larger portions in the oven to maintain texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American