Description
Overnight Maple Walnut French Toast Recipe
Ingredients:
1 loaf brioche or challah bread, sliced thick
6 large eggs
1 ½ cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup pure maple syrup (plus more for serving)
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
½ cup chopped walnuts
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Whipped cream (for topping)
Fresh berries (for serving)
Instructions:
Prepare the Custard:
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Assemble the French Toast:
Lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer the bread slices in the dish, slightly overlapping.
Pour the custard evenly over the bread.
Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top.
Chill Overnight:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
Bake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Drizzle the top with melted butter.
Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, until golden and set.
Serve:
Top with whipped cream, extra walnuts, and maple syrup.
Garnish with fresh berries for a pop of color.
Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ overnight chill)
Bake Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, ensure your bread is thickly sliced (about 1 inch) and slightly stale; this helps it absorb the custard without disintegrating. When preparing the custard, whisk the eggs thoroughly before adding the other wet ingredients to ensure a smooth, uniform mixture. As you layer the bread in the buttered dish, shingle the slices like dominoes for even coverage. When pouring the custard, pause halfway to gently press the bread down with a spatula, ensuring every piece is saturated. For the overnight chill, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the top from drying out.
Serving Suggestions
This rich French toast is a complete brunch centerpiece. Serve it directly from the baking dish for a family-style presentation. Alongside the recommended whipped cream and berries, consider offering crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausage to balance the sweetness. For a festive touch, sprinkle with powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce. A side of Greek yogurt or a fresh fruit salad also complements the dish beautifully.
How-to Summary
In short: Whisk the custard ingredients, layer bread in a dish, pour custard over top, and sprinkle with walnuts. Refrigerate overnight. The next morning, drizzle with melted butter and bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes until golden. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dairy-free? Yes. Substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with full-fat canned coconut milk for a rich, dairy-free alternative.
How long can I keep leftovers? Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole dish in a 300°F oven until warmed through.
Can I use a different type of bread? Absolutely. French bread or a hearty white sandwich bread works, but brioche or challah provides the best rich texture and absorption.
What if I forgot to chill it overnight? A minimum of 4 hours is essential for proper absorption. For best results, do not skip the chilling step.
Can I add fruit to the bake itself? Yes. Layer thin slices of apple or pear between the bread slices, or sprinkle fresh or frozen berries on top with the walnuts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using fresh, soft bread which can turn mushy. Slightly stale is best.
- Not fully saturating the bread with the custard mixture, leading to dry spots.
- Overbaking, which makes the toast dry. Remove it when the center is just set.
- Skipping the butter drizzle before baking; it is crucial for a golden, crispy top.
- Cutting into the bake immediately after removing it from the oven. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to set.
Conclusion
This Overnight Maple Walnut French Toast is the ultimate make-ahead brunch solution, transforming simple ingredients into a spectacular, crowd-pleasing dish. The combination of rich custard, crunchy walnuts, and sweet maple syrup guarantees a memorable meal with minimal morning effort. Perfect for holidays, weekends, or any special gathering, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.