Description
Overnight French Toast Casserole
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
1 loaf French bread (or brioche/challah), cut into 1-inch cubes
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
For the Crumb Topping:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Instructions
Prep the Bread:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Spread the cubed bread evenly in the dish.
Mix the Custard:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Combine:
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Press down lightly to ensure all bread is soaked.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours).
Make the Crumb Topping:
In a medium bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Cut in the cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the soaked bread.
Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Serve:
Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Drizzle with maple syrup and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ overnight chill)
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8
This decadent French toast casserole is perfect for holidays, brunches, or any morning you want an easy yet delicious breakfast.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof casserole. First, ensure your bread is slightly stale; fresh bread can become mushy. Cut it into uniform cubes for even soaking. When making the custard, whisk the eggs thoroughly before adding other liquids to avoid streaks of egg white. Pouring the custard slowly and pressing the bread down ensures every piece is saturated. The overnight rest is non-negotiable—it allows the custard to fully penetrate the bread. Before baking, let the dish sit at room temperature for 20 minutes while the oven preheats to ensure even cooking. Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this warm casserole with classic maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar. For a festive touch, offer a berry compote, warm caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair with crispy bacon, savory breakfast sausage, or a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness. For a special brunch, garnish with fresh mint or a sprinkle of toasted pecans.
How-to Summary
Cube bread into a greased dish. Whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, and spices to make a custard. Pour over bread, press down, and refrigerate overnight. Before baking, make a crumb topping by cutting butter into flour, sugar, and spices. Sprinkle topping over the soaked bread and bake at 350°F for 45-55 minutes until golden and set. Cool briefly before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk, and use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream. Use a dairy-free butter alternative for the topping.
How long can I store leftovers?
Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered, in a 300°F oven until warm.
Can I freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole?
Yes. Assemble the casserole (without the topping) and freeze it before the overnight rest. Thaw completely in the refrigerator for 24 hours, then add topping and bake.
What if I don’t have 6 hours to soak?
A minimum 4-hour soak can work in a pinch, but the texture will be less uniform. Overnight is strongly recommended for the best results.
Can I use different bread?
Absolutely. Brioche or challah will be richer. For a heartier version, try sourdough or a whole-grain loaf, ensuring it’s sturdy enough to hold the custard.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using fresh, soft bread: This leads to a soggy texture. Use day-old or lightly toasted bread.
- Not pressing the bread down: Failing to submerge all cubes results in dry, crunchy patches.
- Skipping the chill time: This step is crucial for custard absorption. Baking immediately will give you a liquidy, eggy mess.
- Overbaking: This dries out the casserole. Remove it when the center is just set and the top is golden.
- Using softened butter for the topping: Cold butter is essential for creating the proper crumbly texture.
Conclusion
This Overnight French Toast Casserole is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast, transforming simple ingredients into a decadent, crowd-pleasing dish. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you ensure a perfectly textured, flavorful result every time. Its versatility in serving and adaptability to dietary needs makes it a reliable star for any brunch table. Prepare it the night before and wake up to a stress-free, spectacular morning meal.