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Overnight French Toast Casserole

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Overnight French Toast Casserole is a rich and comforting make-ahead breakfast featuring custard-soaked bread baked with a buttery cinnamon streusel topping. Perfect for holidays, brunches, and family gatherings, it delivers classic French toast flavor with minimal morning effort.

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2/3 cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • Maple syrup, optional for serving
  • Powdered sugar, optional for serving
  • Fresh berries, optional for serving
  • Whipped cream, optional for serving

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes.
  5. Press the bread gently into the liquid to help it absorb the custard.
  6. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours.
  7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  8. In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the streusel topping.
  9. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
  10. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the casserole.
  11. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
  12. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
  13. Serve with maple syrup, powdered sugar, berries, or whipped cream if desired.

Notes

  • French bread, brioche, challah, or sourdough all work well for this recipe.
  • Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard best and prevents sogginess.
  • Add berries, diced apples, cream cheese cubes, or chocolate chips for variation.
  • The casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze baked portions for up to 3 months and thaw before reheating.

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