Description
A rich and comforting Overnight French Toast Casserole featuring cubes of French bread soaked overnight in a custard of eggs, milk, heavy cream, and warm spices, topped with a buttery cinnamon streusel and baked to golden perfection. This make-ahead breakfast is perfect for holidays or weekend brunches.
Ingredients
Scale
Casserole
- 14 oz French Bread (cut into 1 inch cubes)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Dish: Spray a 13×9 inch baking dish with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Bread: Place the French bread cubes in an even layer within the prepared dish.
- Mix Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and heavy cream until fully combined.
- Add Flavorings: Beat in the light brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until the custard mixture is smooth and well incorporated. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press down to ensure all bread is soaked.
- Chill Overnight: Cover the casserole with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the bread to keep it coated in custard. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours to allow thorough soaking.
- Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350º F (175º C).
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine flour, light brown sugar, and cinnamon until mixture is thick and crumbly. Drop small pieces of this streusel evenly over the soaked bread.
- Bake: Bake the casserole for about 45 minutes, until it puffs up and becomes lightly golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting time helps the casserole set.
Notes
- For best results, soak the bread overnight but no longer than 24 hours to prevent it from becoming too soggy.
- French bread works well for sturdy texture; day-old bread or slightly stale is ideal.
- You can customize this dish by adding fruits like sliced apples or berries before baking.
- Serve with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- To make ahead easier, assemble the casserole the night before and bake fresh in the morning or bake in the evening for a warm breakfast next day.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: overnight french toast casserole, baked french toast, breakfast casserole, make ahead brunch, cinnamon streusel
