Oh my goodness, if there’s one dish that gets everyone excited at breakfast gatherings, it’s my overnight French toast casserole! Just imagine waking up to the delicious aroma of cinnamon and maple wafting through your home. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I remember the first time I served this at a brunch with friends. We had spent the night laughing and chatting, and when we pulled this beauty out of the oven the next morning, everyone’s eyes lit up! The best part? You can prepare it all the night before, which means less stress and more time to enjoy your guests. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to dish for any occasion. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, and when it bakes, it turns into this golden, fluffy masterpiece. You won’t want to miss out on this one!

Ingredients

Now, let’s talk about the star players in this overnight French toast casserole. You won’t need anything fancy, just some good, hearty ingredients that come together to create magic!

• 1 loaf of bread, cubed: I love using day-old bread for this—sourdough or French bread work wonderfully! The slightly stale texture helps soak up all that custardy goodness.
• 6 large eggs: These are your binding agents, bringing everything together in a rich, fluffy embrace.
• 2 cups milk: Whole milk adds creaminess, but you can use any milk you prefer, even almond or oat milk, for a dairy-free option.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: This is where the decadence comes in! It makes every bite extra luscious.
• 1/2 cup sugar: Just the right amount for sweetness; you can reduce it if you like it less sweet!
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Pure vanilla is a must for that warm, aromatic flavor—don’t skimp on this!
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A classic spice that pairs perfectly with French toast; feel free to add a bit more if you love that cinnamon kick.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to balance the flavors.
• 1/4 cup maple syrup: This is for drizzling on top before serving, adding that sweet, rich finish.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re already halfway to a breakfast that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

How to Prepare Overnight French Toast Casserole

Alright, let’s dive into the magic of putting this overnight French toast casserole together! I promise, it’s as simple as it gets, and the results are just spectacular. Follow these steps, and your breakfast will be the talk of the town!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Grease the baking dish: Start by giving a 9×13 inch baking dish a good coat of butter or non-stick spray. This ensures your casserole comes out easily and doesn’t stick!
2. Cube the bread: Take your loaf of day-old bread and cut it into bite-sized cubes. Aim for about 1-inch pieces—this helps them soak up all the delicious flavors!
3. Layer the bread: Spread the cubed bread evenly in your greased baking dish. Make sure they’re all snug and cozy together.
4. Whisk the egg mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix until it’s smooth and well combined. You’ll love how it smells—oh, that vanilla!
5. Pour over the bread: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the cubed bread, making sure every piece is soaked. I like to gently press down on the bread with a spatula to help it soak in.
6. Cover and chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and pop it in the refrigerator overnight. This is where the magic happens—the bread absorbs all that custardy goodness!
7. Preheat the oven: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get it nice and hot so your casserole bakes evenly.
8. Bake it: Remove the cover and bake the casserole for 45-50 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown top and a fluffy interior. The kitchen will smell heavenly!
9. Drizzle and serve: Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Drizzle with maple syrup just before serving for that perfect finishing touch. Yum!

And there you have it! A delicious, easy-to-make overnight French toast casserole that will have everyone asking for your secret!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s chat about the numbers behind this delicious overnight French toast casserole! Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on typical ingredients, so they might vary a bit depending on what you use. But here’s a rough idea of what to expect per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 180mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g
• Protein: 8g

This casserole is rich and indulgent, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy brunch with friends and family. Enjoy every delicious bite, guilt-free!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you why this overnight French toast casserole is bound to steal the spotlight at your breakfast table! Here are just a few reasons you’ll fall head over heels for it:

• Effortless Preparation: You can whip it up in just 15 minutes the night before, leaving you free to enjoy your morning coffee while it bakes!
• Deliciously Fluffy: The combination of eggs and cream creates a rich, custardy texture that’s simply irresistible.
• Perfect for Gatherings: It serves a crowd easily, making it ideal for brunches, holidays, or lazy Sunday mornings with friends and family.
• Versatile Toppings: You can customize it with fruits, nuts, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a little extra flair.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it the night before, so you can focus on what really matters—spending time with loved ones!
• Kid-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this sweet, comforting dish—who can resist a warm slice of French toast?

Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your breakfast repertoire!

Tips for Success

Before you dive into making your overnight French toast casserole, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure you get it just right. I’ve learned a few things along the way that can make all the difference!

• Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread is your best friend here! It absorbs the custard mixture better than fresh bread, resulting in a delightful, fluffy texture. If you only have fresh bread, let it sit out for a few hours to dry out a bit.
• Don’t Rush the Soaking: Give the bread enough time to soak up the egg mixture. Pressing down gently with a spatula helps ensure every piece gets that delicious custard flavor.
• Cover It Up: Make sure to cover the dish tightly while it chills overnight. This helps prevent the bread from drying out and keeps all that flavor locked in.
• Check for Doneness: Every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. A golden top and a puffed-up center are great indicators that it’s ready. If it’s browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil.
• Customize Your Flavors: Feel free to experiment with spices! A pinch of nutmeg or a splash of orange zest can elevate the flavor even more. Just remember, less is more when you’re starting out.
• Let It Rest: Once your casserole is out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set up and makes slicing easier.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious overnight French toast casserole that will impress everyone at your breakfast table. Happy cooking!

Variations

Now, let’s get a little creative with your overnight French toast casserole! There are so many delightful twists you can add to this classic dish to make it uniquely yours. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Berry Bliss: Toss in a mix of fresh or frozen berries—blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries—before pouring the egg mixture. They’ll burst with flavor and add a lovely pop of color!
• Banana Nut: Slice up some ripe bananas and sprinkle in chopped walnuts or pecans. The bananas caramelize beautifully as it bakes, making every bite a sweet treat.
• Chocolate Chip Delight: Who doesn’t love chocolate? Add a handful of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the bread for a decadent twist that’s sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.
• Spiced Apple: Sauté diced apples with a bit of cinnamon and brown sugar before layering them in. The warm, spiced apples create a cozy, comforting flavor that’s perfect for fall!
• Caramel Pecan: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the bread before pouring the egg mixture, then top with chopped pecans. This will give your casserole a rich, indulgent sweetness!
• Coconut Dreams: Add shredded coconut to the egg mixture for a tropical flair. You could even swap in coconut milk for some of the milk to enhance that coconut flavor.
• Pumpkin Spice: For a seasonal twist, mix in some pumpkin puree and a bit of pumpkin spice. It’s a delicious way to celebrate autumn and a great addition to holiday brunches!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas or come up with your own! The beauty of this overnight French toast casserole is that it’s incredibly versatile, so let your creativity shine and enjoy the delicious results!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your spectacular overnight French toast casserole ready to go, let’s talk about how to make your brunch spread even more delightful! Here are some fantastic complementary dishes and sides that pair perfectly with this sweet, custardy treat:

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. Think berries, melons, and citrus—you can’t go wrong!
• Bacon or Sausage: For those who love a savory touch, crispy bacon or flavorful sausage links make a great addition. The salty crunch pairs beautifully with the sweet casserole.
• Yogurt Parfaits: Layer some creamy yogurt with granola and fruit. It’s a light and healthy option that balances out the indulgence of the casserole.
• Maple-Glazed Ham: If you’re feeling fancy, a slice of maple-glazed ham brings a delicious sweet and savory contrast that’s simply divine with French toast.
• Scrambled Eggs: For a hearty brunch, serve fluffy scrambled eggs on the side. You can even add cheese or herbs for an extra flavor boost!
• Coffee or Mimosas: Don’t forget the beverages! Brew up a pot of rich coffee, or whip up some refreshing mimosas with orange juice and sparkling wine to keep the celebration going.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream on top of the casserole can take it to the next level. It’s like adding a cloud of sweetness to every bite!

With these serving suggestions, your overnight French toast casserole will shine even brighter at the breakfast table. Enjoy creating a brunch that everyone will remember!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, if you happen to have any leftovers from your fabulous overnight French toast casserole (which, let’s be honest, is a big “if”!), you’ll want to know how to store them properly. Here’s how to keep that deliciousness fresh and ready for round two!

• Storing Leftovers: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to label it with the date so you know when it was made!
• Freezing: If you want to save it for later, you can freeze individual portions! Slice the casserole and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It should last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Just make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, the best way to reheat them is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the casserole (or slices) in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it from drying out, and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, but the oven will give you that lovely crispy edge back!
• Serving Tip: A drizzle of fresh maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream on top after reheating can make those leftovers feel like a special treat all over again!

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor every last bite of your overnight French toast casserole. Enjoy!

Overnight French Toast Casserole That Will Delight Everyone

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

A delicious overnight French toast casserole, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 loaf of bread, cubed
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup maple syrup

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Instructions

1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Place the cubed bread in the dish.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the bread.
5. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes.
8. Drizzle with maple syrup before serving.

Notes

• Use day-old bread for better texture.
• Can add fruits like berries or bananas.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: overnight french toast casserole, breakfast casserole, French toast