This Overnight French Toast Casserole Bake is a game changer for breakfast! It’s fluffy, sweet, and filled with warm spices, making mornings feel extra special.
Just mix it the night before and let it chill in the fridge. In the morning, you pop it in the oven, and voilà! It smells amazing and tastes even better. Perfect for lazy weekends with family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Use thick-cut bread like brioche or challah for the best texture. If those aren’t available, a sturdy white bread or even slightly stale baguette works great. They’ll soak up the custard well!
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for binding everything together. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can try using silken tofu blended until smooth as a substitute.
Milk: Whole milk gives this casserole a rich taste. You can swap it for almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar: You can reduce the sugar for a less sweet dish, or use coconut sugar or honey for a natural alternative. Just be aware that honey will change the consistency a bit.
Vanilla Extract: A must-have for flavor! If you’re out, try using almond extract for a different twist, but use it sparingly as it’s much stronger.
How Do You Get That Perfect Custard Texture?
The key to a creamy, custardy French toast bake is all about soaking the bread enough! Make sure to give it enough time to absorb the egg mixture.
- After pouring the custard over the bread, gently press down so the bread is submerged.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight — this helps the flavors to meld together.
- If you’re short on time, aim for at least 2-4 hours of soaking, but overnight is ideal!
When you bake, keep an eye on it! The top should be golden brown while the inside stays soft and fluffy. Enjoy your breakfast casserole as it will surely become a crowd favorite!
Overnight French Toast Casserole Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf (about 12 oz) thick-cut bread (such as brioche or challah), cut into cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole requires about 15 minutes of preparation time and then an overnight chill in the fridge (or at least 8 hours). The baking time in the morning is around 45-55 minutes. So, total time includes a little prep and the luxury of waking up to a warm breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This will help ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and is easy to serve!
2. Mix the Custard:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if you’re using it), and salt. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Soak the Bread:
Now, place the cubed bread evenly into the prepared baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, gently pressing down on the bread to make sure each piece is soaking up the custard. This step is key for maximum flavor!
4. Chill Overnight:
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and pop it in the refrigerator overnight (or for at least 8 hours). This allows the bread to absorb all the delicious flavors.
5. Preheat and Prepare for Baking:
On the morning of baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, let’s make the topping!
6. Make the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. This will create a sweet, buttery topping that you’ll drizzle over the bread before baking.
7. Add the Topping:
Drizzle or dollop this sweet mixture evenly over the soaked bread in the baking dish, distributing it as evenly as possible.
8. Bake the Casserole:
Bake it uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Watch for that delicious golden crust!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving it. This helps it set slightly and makes it easier to cut.
10. Enjoy:
Serve it warm with maple syrup on the side for drizzling over the top. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or gathering with friends and family!
Enjoy your cozy, comforting breakfast bake that’s easy to prep ahead and perfect for gatherings!
Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?
Absolutely! While brioche and challah are ideal for their richness, you can use any sturdy bread you prefer. A French baguette or even sourdough can work well. Just make sure it’s thick-cut to absorb the custard.
Can I Prep This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! The beauty of this recipe lies in its overnight prep. Just prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. In the morning, all you need to do is bake it!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or pop them back in the oven for a few minutes until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole! Just assemble everything and cover it tightly before freezing. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual. It may take a bit longer to bake from frozen, so adjust the time accordingly!
