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Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe

5 from 56 reviews

This Overnight French Toast Casserole is a delicious and convenient breakfast dish that you prepare the night before. Layers of thick-cut bread are soaked in a cinnamon-spiced brown sugar and egg mixture, then baked until golden and set. Serve it warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit for a comforting start to your day.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Casserole

  • 1012 slices thick-cut bread
  • ⅔ cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 5 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1½ cups milk or heavy whipping cream

For Serving

  • Maple syrup
  • Powdered sugar
  • Sliced fruit (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Generously spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Mix Brown Sugar and Cinnamon: In a medium bowl, combine ⅔ cup brown sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Set this mixture aside for layering.
  3. Whisk Egg Mixture: In another medium bowl, whisk together 5 large eggs, 1½ cups milk (or heavy whipping cream), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the ingredients are fully combined and smooth.
  4. Layer the Bread: Arrange 5 to 6 slices of thick-cut bread evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating the first layer.
  5. Add Brown Sugar and Cinnamon: Sprinkle half of the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the first bread layer to distribute flavor.
  6. Add Second Bread Layer: Place the remaining 5 to 6 slices of bread on top of the first layer, then sprinkle the remaining brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the top layer.
  7. Pour Egg Mixture: Slowly pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the layered bread slices, ensuring every piece is well moistened for a custardy texture.
  8. Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and refrigerate it overnight, allowing the bread to soak and absorb the flavors.
  9. Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the casserole cooks evenly.
  10. Bake Covered: Bake the casserole covered with foil for 30 minutes, allowing it to cook through without drying out.
  11. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the center is fully set.
  12. Serve: Serve the French toast warm, topped with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or sliced fruit as desired.

Notes

  • Use thick-cut bread like brioche or challah for a richer texture.
  • Heavy whipping cream can be substituted for milk for a creamier custard.
  • Adding a pinch of salt to the egg mixture enhances the flavors.
  • Make sure to cover tightly to avoid the casserole drying out in the fridge.
  • Leftovers refrigerate well and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: overnight french toast casserole, baked french toast, breakfast casserole, cinnamon french toast, easy breakfast recipes