Description
This Overnight French Toast Casserole is an easy, make-ahead breakfast dish that will impress your family with minimal effort. Cubed bread is soaked overnight in a rich custard mixture of eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon, then baked until golden and perfectly set. Serve it drizzled with maple syrup for a comforting and delicious morning treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Casserole
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Serving
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent the casserole from sticking during baking.
- Add the bread: Place the cubed bread evenly into the greased baking dish.
- Make the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cubed bread, making sure all pieces are thoroughly soaked. Press the bread gently if necessary to help absorb the custard.
- Refrigerate overnight: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator overnight, allowing the bread to soak and the flavors to meld.
- Preheat the oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the casserole: Remove the cover and bake the casserole uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is fully set.
- Serve with syrup: Drizzle the casserole with maple syrup before serving for a sweet and classic finish.
Notes
- Use sturdy bread like brioche or challah for best texture.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or substitute half the sugar with brown sugar.
- To make it dairy-free, substitute milk and cream with almond or oat milk.
- The casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and baked the next day.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
