Print

Overnight French Toast Casserole

Overnight French Toast Casserole
Print Recipe

The Overnight French Toast Casserole is a comforting, custardy, and sweet breakfast dish that is easy to prepare the night before. It features thick bread soaked in a rich custard mixture and baked to a golden, indulgent finish. Perfect for busy mornings or special brunches, this casserole is family-friendly, customizable, and makes ahead with convenience and deliciousness.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • 6–8 thick slices or 4 cups of cubed brioche, challah, or French bread

Custard Mixture

  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk or cream (dairy or plant-based)
  • 1/2 cup sugar (white or brown sugar)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Optional spices: nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, or allspice to taste

Other

  • 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing dish and dotting on top
  • Optional add-ins: fresh or frozen fruit, nuts, chocolate chips (quantity as desired)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Cut your chosen bread into thick cubes or slices. Spread the pieces evenly in a buttered baking dish to form your casserole’s base.
  2. Whisk the Custard: In a large bowl, combine eggs, milk (or cream), sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and any additional spices. Whisk thoroughly until well mixed.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently to make sure each piece soaks up the mixture. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
  4. Refrigerate Overnight: Place the assembled casserole in the refrigerator to soak for at least 8 hours, allowing the bread to absorb the custard fully.
  5. Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge, dot the top with small pieces of butter, and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until the top is puffed and golden brown.

Notes

  • Use slightly stale bread to absorb the custard better without falling apart during baking.
  • Press down gently on the bread in the custard to help it soak, but avoid over-mixing to maintain texture.
  • Cover the casserole tightly in the refrigerator to prevent drying or odor absorption.
  • Butter the baking dish well to prevent sticking and encourage a crisp, golden edge.
  • Soak overnight for best results; minimum of 4 hours is acceptable if short on time.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight French toast casserole, breakfast casserole, make-ahead breakfast, custardy French toast, easy brunch recipe, gluten-free breakfast casserole

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/overnight-french-toast-casserole/