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Overnight French Toast Bake

A warm, custardy French toast casserole with a caramelized brown sugar topping, perfect for a make-ahead breakfast or brunch.
Servings 8 Servings
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Rest Time 12 hours
Total Time 13 hours

Equipment

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Plastic wrap or aluminum foil

Ingredients

For the French Toast

  • 1 loaf French bread cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans optional
  • Powdered sugar and maple syrup for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

  • Place the cubed bread evenly in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Tip: Stale bread works best to absorb the custard without becoming too soggy.

Step 2: Make the Custard

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pour over the bread, pressing down slightly.
  • Tip: Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes before refrigerating to ensure full absorption.

Step 3: Refrigerate Overnight

  • Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours).

Step 4: Make the Topping

  • In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and pecans (if using). Refrigerate separately.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the fridge, sprinkle the topping over, and bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until golden and set.
  • Tip: For a softer texture, cover for the first 30 minutes, then uncover for the last 15 minutes.

Notes

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Variations: Add fresh berries, chocolate chips, or swap the spices for a seasonal twist!
Calories: 350kcal
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: French
Keyword: baked french toast, best breakfast casserole, Bread, brunch ideas, cinnamon french toast, Crowd Pleasers, easy brunch recipe, family-friendly breakfast, holiday breakfast, make-ahead breakfast, Over 60 min, overnight french toast bake, sweet breakfast recipes, Vegetarian, Weekend Brunch