Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Best Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 32 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 65 minutes (including soak time)
  • Yield: 8 to 10 servings
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Best Overnight French Toast Casserole is a comforting and delicious breakfast dish that can be prepared the night before, making morning routines easier. Cubed French bread is soaked in a rich custard of eggs, milk, cream, and warm spices, then topped with a buttery cinnamon-sugar mixture and baked until golden and perfectly set. Ideal for family gatherings or weekend brunches, this recipe delivers classic flavors with minimal morning effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 1 loaf of French bread (approx. 12 cups cubed, day-old preferred)

Custard Mixture

  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

Topping

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
  2. Cube the Bread: Cut the French bread into uniform cubes and spread them evenly across the prepared baking dish to create an even base.
  3. Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, salt, and optional nutmeg until fully combined and smooth.
  4. Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cubed bread, pressing gently to ensure that all pieces soak up the custard well for maximum flavor and custard penetration.
  5. Refrigerate: Cover the baking dish securely with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard fully.
  6. Prepare the Topping: Combine the melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl, stirring until smooth and well blended.
  7. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even baking.
  8. Add the Topping: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator, drizzle the prepared topping evenly over the soaked bread, and sprinkle chopped nuts if desired to add crunch and flavor.
  9. Bake: Place the uncovered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is fully set with no wobble.
  10. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes after removing from the oven to set further, then slice into portions for serving.
  11. Optional Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or fresh berries to complement the rich flavors.

Notes

  • Using day-old or slightly stale French bread helps the bread absorb the custard better without becoming mushy.
  • The casserole can be covered tightly and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped pecans or walnuts.
  • If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute whole milk and cream with almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative for the topping.
  • The nutmeg is optional but adds a lovely warm spice note—feel free to omit if desired.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://comfortkitcheneats.com/best-overnight-french-toast-casserole-recipe/