Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe
This overnight French toast casserole recipe is the perfect breakfast for a crowd! It’s simple and delicious, with a crisp topping and custardy middle.
Introduction to French Toast Casserole
This French toast casserole recipe is the easiest way to make French toast for a crowd. Instead of standing at the stove, flipping slices to order, you simply cube bread, douse it in a rich, cinnamon-spiced custard, and bake it topped with pecans and brown sugar.
It’s a breeze to prepare on the morning you plan to serve it, but you can also assemble it the night before. The next morning, simply add the nutty topping, pop it in the oven, and bake! This French toast casserole is crisp on top and moist and custardy in the middle, much like a breakfast bread pudding.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Bread | A good loaf of challah, brioche, French bread, or sourdough |
| Eggs | Required for richness and binding |
| Milk | Any kind (almond, whole, oat milk) |
| Brown sugar | Used in the custard and as topping |
| Cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract | For depth of flavor |
| Butter or coconut oil | For crisping the top |
| Pecans | Add rich, nutty crunch |
| Sea salt | Enhances flavors |
Find the complete recipe with measurements below.
How to Make Overnight French Toast Casserole
Here’s a quick overview of the preparation steps:
- Prep the bread: Cut bread into 1-inch cubes and layer in a greased 9×13-inch pan.
- Whisk together the custard mixture: Pour it evenly over the bread, moistening as much as possible.
- If making ahead, cover and refrigerate overnight; if same-day, let it stand for 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Bake: Drizzle with melted butter, sprinkle with brown sugar and pecans, then cover and bake for 35 minutes at 350°F. Uncover and bake for another 10 to 20 minutes until browning.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving.
Recipe Tip
- Use stale bread. Buy a day or two in advance for better absorption of the custard mixture.
Best Bread Options
Challah is ideal, but brioche, French bread, and crusty sourdough also work well. Avoid soft, pre-sliced sandwich bread to prevent sogginess.
What to Serve with French Toast Casserole
Don’t skip the maple syrup! Its sweetness complements the casserole perfectly. Other delicious toppings to consider include:
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh berries: strawberries, blueberries
- Other fruit: banana slices, pomegranate seeds
This recipe suits special occasions like Christmas morning but is also perfect for weekend brunches. Pair it with a frittata or scrambled eggs and serve with coffee or mimosas.
How to Store French Toast Casserole
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or cover and heat in a 325°F oven.
You can also freeze baked casserole: cool completely, then seal tightly. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main keyword in this article?
The main keyword is “Overnight French Toast Casserole.”
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk, along with vegan butter.