Description
Overnight French Toast Casserole is an easy make-ahead breakfast perfect for holidays, weekends, or busy mornings. With its buttery caramel base, creamy custard-soaked bread, and golden cinnamon topping, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Prepare it the night before and bake in the morning for a stress-free, indulgent start to the day.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Base:
- 2 sticks butter, melted
- 2 cups light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
For the Bread Layer:
- 1 loaf French bread, cut into 2-inch slices
For the Custard:
- 2 cups milk (or substitute half-and-half for richer custard)
- 8 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar, maple syrup, whipped cream, fresh fruit, or nuts
Instructions
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base:
- Pour melted butter into an 11×15-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon on top to create a caramel layer.
- Layer the Bread:
- Arrange slices of French bread in the dish, ensuring they are snug but not overlapping.
- Make the Custard:
- Whisk together milk, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl.
- Assemble and Chill:
- Pour the custard over the bread, ensuring all slices are evenly coated. Press the bread gently into the custard to help absorption. Cover with foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the covered casserole for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
- Serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with toppings of your choice.
Notes
- For added crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the brown sugar base before adding the bread.
- For a seasonal twist, layer fresh berries, bananas, or sliced apples between the bread slices.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3–4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 140mg