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Ultimate Make-Ahead Overnight Baked French Toast Casserole

A close-up of a square serving of moist baked french toast topped with cinnamon streusel and drizzled with maple syrup.
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Prepare this easy baked French toast casserole the night before for a stress-free, delicious morning. It bakes up custardy inside with golden edges, perfect for a crowd or a cozy weekend brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (about 1 pound) day-old bread (brioche or challah recommended), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted (for topping)
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (for topping)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined. This creates your rich custard.
  3. Pour the custard mixture slowly and evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid.
  4. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the bread to soak completely.
  5. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Remove the plastic wrap.
  6. Prepare the streusel topping: In a separate small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and flour. Mix with a fork until crumbly.
  7. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the soaked bread.
  8. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and the center is set (a knife inserted near the center comes out clean).
  9. Let the baked French toast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Using day-old or slightly stale bread helps the cubes hold their shape and absorb more custard without becoming mushy.
  • For a holiday breakfast, you can add 1 cup of fresh or frozen berries over the bread before pouring the custard.
  • This recipe is excellent for feeding a crowd, making it a top choice for easy brunch recipes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://eatableempress.com/baked-french-toast-casserole-recipe/