Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe
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.
- Author: Sienna
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 45 minutes (including overnight refrigeration)
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
For the Casserole
- 10–12 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)
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Generously spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Brown Sugar and Cinnamon: Sprinkle half of the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the first bread layer to distribute flavor.
- 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.
- 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.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and refrigerate it overnight, allowing the bread to soak and absorb the flavors.
- Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the casserole cooks evenly.
- Bake Covered: Bake the casserole covered with foil for 30 minutes, allowing it to cook through without drying out.
- 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.
- 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