Description
This Overnight French Toast Casserole combines the favorites of French toast in a make-ahead format for an indulgent yet simple breakfast option.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf French bread or brioche (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter (cubed)
Instructions
- Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to ensure that the casserole doesn’t stick. Evenly distribute the bread cubes across the dish, ensuring an even layer without overcrowding. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated and brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Ensure that the mixture is well combined without lumps. Gradually pour this luscious custard over the bread cubes, making sure each piece gets a fair share of the soaking. Press the bread cubes gently to help them better absorb the mixture, cover the dish tightly, and refrigerate it overnight.
- As the casserole rests, mix the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. Add the cubed cold butter into the mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step ensures that the topping retains a delightful crunch. Cover and store this mixture in the refrigerator overnight, as well, to keep the butter firm.
- The next morning, bring your casserole out and let it rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes while you preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once ready, take the prepared crumbly topping and generously sprinkle it over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes until the casserole is puffed and the topping is golden brown. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
Ensure proper soaking of the bread cubes in the custard to achieve ideal texture. Baking times may vary, so monitor closely for perfect browning.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus overnight chilling)
- Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sodium: 310 mg
- Protein: 6 g