Description
This Overnight French Toast Casserole is a perfect make-ahead breakfast dish that combines custardy soaked bread with a rich, buttery, spiced brown sugar topping. Prepared the night before, it bakes into a golden, fluffy delight ideal for family gatherings or weekend brunches.
Ingredients
Scale
French Toast Base
- 1 loaf French bread or thick Texas toast (about 12-16 ounces)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups half and half
- ½ cup milk
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
Topping
- 1 ½ sticks butter (12 tablespoons), softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tbsp light corn syrup (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preparation: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. Slice the French bread into 1-inch thick slices and arrange them neatly in rows within the prepared baking dish.
- Mix the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the arranged bread slices, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the baking dish and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
- Preheat and Flip: The following morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and carefully flip each bread slice to ensure even soaking on both sides.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, packed light brown sugar, light corn syrup (if using), ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Mix until smooth and spread this buttery topping evenly over the soaked bread slices.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed and golden brown on top.
Notes
- Using thick slices of sturdy bread like French bread or Texas toast ensures the casserole holds its shape well.
- If you prefer a less sweet topping, reduce the brown sugar slightly or omit the corn syrup.
- Make sure to refrigerate the casserole overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to soak properly.
- The casserole can be baked immediately after soaking, but overnight soaking improves texture and flavor depth.
- Serve warm with maple syrup and fresh fruit for a complete breakfast.
