This Overnight French Toast Casserole Bake is a warm, comforting dish that’s easy to make. You layer bread, eggs, and milk, then let it sit overnight to soak up all the goodness.
Perfect for breakfast guests or a cozy family brunch! I love how I can prepare it the night before, and in the morning, just pop it in the oven and enjoy the delicious smell filling the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: A sturdy bread like brioche or French bread works best for this casserole. If you’re looking for alternatives, challah or even sourdough can be great choices. Whole grain bread can be used for a healthier twist.
Eggs: The eggs give structure and richness to the dish. If you’re in a pinch or need a vegan option, consider using flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) or an egg replacer.
Milk: Whole milk creates a rich custard, but you can go for 2% or almond milk if that fits your diet better. Coconut milk is another tasty non-dairy alternative that adds a nice flavor.
Sugars: The mix of granular and brown sugar enhances flavor. Feel free to use coconut sugar or even a sugar substitute if you want to cut down on sweetness. Just remember that it might affect the texture a bit.
Cinnamon: It adds warmth and sweetness. Want a twist? Try nutmeg or a dash of ginger for a different flavor profile. I love adding a pinch of cardamom for an extra layer of spice!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is Well-Soaked?
Soaking the bread is key to a delicious French toast casserole! You want each piece to absorb the custard mixture fully. Follow these steps:
- Press down on the bread slices gently after pouring the egg mixture to help it soak in.
- Cover tightly so no air escapes, which helps the bread absorb moisture overnight.
- If you’re worried about the top drying out, you can add a little extra milk or custard mixture on top before baking.
Letting it sit overnight is essential. It ensures a creamy texture and gives the flavors time to meld. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Overnight French Toast Casserole Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf of sturdy bread (such as brioche or French bread), cut into thick slices (about 10-12 slices)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For Serving:
- Maple syrup (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole requires about 20 minutes to prepare and needs at least 8 hours to soak overnight. Once it’s ready to bake, it takes about 45 to 55 minutes in the oven. So, plan for about 9 hours total, but most of that is hands-off time!
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 to ensure that your casserole comes out easily once it’s done baking. You can use a paper towel to spread the butter around if you like!
2. Arrange the Bread:
Take the thick slices of bread and arrange them in the baking dish. You can stand them upright, or let them overlap slightly. Making sure they’re snug in the dish ensures they’ll soak up that yummy custard mixture later.
3. Mix the Custard:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until everything is nicely combined. This is where all the magic begins!
4. Create the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
In a separate smaller bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. This will add a delightful sweetness and aroma to your casserole.
5. Soak the Bread:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the arranged bread slices, making sure to soak all of them well. Use a fork to gently press the bread down if necessary, ensuring each piece is covered in that custardy goodness.
6. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the top of the soaked bread. Then, drizzle melted butter all over for an extra tasty flavor boost!
7. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator overnight. This is essential—the longer it soaks, the better it will taste!
8. Prepare to Bake:
When you’re ready to enjoy your casserole the next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole will bake evenly.
9. Bake the Casserole:
Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish, and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. The smell will be heavenly!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s delightful when served warm, with a drizzle of maple syrup if you like! Enjoy your delicious, hassle-free breakfast treat!
This Overnight French Toast Casserole Bake gives you a soft, custardy inside with a sweet, slightly crunchy cinnamon sugar topping. Perfect for family brunches or special occasions!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While brioche and French bread are ideal for their sturdiness, feel free to experiment with challah, sourdough, or even whole grain bread for a healthier twist. Just make sure the bread is still thick enough to hold up during soaking.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk instead of whole milk. For the butter, try coconut oil or dairy-free margarine!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked casserole up to a month in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking it as directed. Enjoy the convenience!
