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Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe for Cozy Mornings

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A comforting and easy-to-make overnight French toast casserole that soaks overnight and bakes into a creamy, custardy breakfast perfect for cozy mornings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups day-old bread cubes (French bread or brioche preferred)
  • 8 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk (can substitute almond milk for dairy-free)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (can reduce to ½ cup for lighter version)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
  • Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • Optional: Powdered sugar or maple syrup for serving

Instructions

  1. Cut about 6 cups of day-old bread into roughly 1-inch cubes. If using fresh bread, toast lightly at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to dry it out.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 8 large eggs, 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, ¾ cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt until smooth and sugar dissolves (about 2-3 minutes).
  3. Place bread cubes in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour custard mixture evenly over bread, pressing gently to help bread absorb liquid. Let sit 10 minutes at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate overnight (at least 6 hours).
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove casserole from fridge and uncover. Dot top with 2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle nuts if using.
  5. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until top is golden brown and custard is set. Test doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  6. Let casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with powdered sugar or maple syrup if desired.

Notes

Use day-old bread for best texture; toast fresh bread if needed. Cover casserole overnight to prevent drying. Check oven 10 minutes before baking ends to avoid burning. Let rest before slicing. Variations include gluten-free bread, vegan substitutions, and adding fruit or nuts.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight French toast casserole, easy breakfast casserole, French toast bake, cozy breakfast, make ahead breakfast

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/easy-overnight-french-toast-casserole-recipe-for-cozy-mornings/