Baked French Toast Casserole for Breakfast or Brunch

There’s nothing better than waking up to a breakfast that’s already baked and ready to enjoy. This Overnight French Toast Casserole is soft, custardy, and full of flavor, a perfect make-ahead meal for busy mornings, holiday brunches, or weekend treats. With layers of bread soaked in a sweet cinnamon-vanilla custard, this casserole combines convenience and indulgence in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Can be prepared the night before, then baked in the morning.
• Custardy, soft, and flavorful French toast in every bite.
• Perfect for feeding a crowd or a family breakfast.
• Easily customizable with different breads, fruits, or toppings.
• Makes mornings stress-free and indulgent at the same time.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 1 loaf of day-old bread (brioche or French bread)
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• ½ cup maple syrup, for serving

Optional Toppings

• Powdered sugar
• Fresh berries
• Whipped cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cut bread into cubes and place in the dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour custard evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press bread down to soak evenly.
4. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (8–12 hours).
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) the next morning.
6. Remove plastic wrap and sprinkle chopped nuts over the top if using.
7. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until custard is set and the top is golden.
8. Let cool 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or berries.

Tips & Variations

• Use different breads like croissants or whole-grain for varied texture.
• Add sliced apples, pears, or berries between bread layers for fruity variation.
• Substitute half-and-half or almond milk for lighter options.
• Top with caramel sauce or chocolate chips for indulgent mornings.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through.
• Freeze: Assemble casserole (without baking), cover tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Pair with hot coffee, chai, or orange juice.
• Top with fresh fruit, nuts, or whipped cream.
• Serve alongside a breakfast meat or dairy-free yogurt for a brunch spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

Yes, substitute milk and cream with almond, oat, or soy milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative if desired.

Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?

Yes, but slightly stale bread absorbs custard better and yields a custardy texture.

How do I prevent soggy French toast casserole?

Use slightly stale bread and avoid over-soaking. Press gently but not too firmly to let custard absorb evenly.

Can I add flavor variations?

Absolutely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, orange zest, or chocolate chips work beautifully. You can also layer in fruits or nuts for added texture.

Ready to Make It?

This Overnight French Toast Casserole makes mornings effortless, delicious, and memorable. Prep it the night before, bake in the morning, and enjoy a breakfast that feels indulgent without the fuss.

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