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Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole: Your Stress-Free Weekend Brunch Headline

A square slice of rich overnight french toast, layered with cinnamon filling and topped with powdered sugar.

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Prepare this rich, custardy overnight French toast casserole the night before. Wake up to minimal morning effort and serve a delicious, make-ahead breakfast perfect for family gatherings or cozy weekend brunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (about 1 pound) thick-cut bread (like brioche or challah), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted (for topping/pan)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed (for topping)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
  • Maple syrup, for serving
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined. This creates your rich custard base.
  3. Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are saturated. Gently press down on the bread to help it soak up the liquid.
  4. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and the topping cinnamon together. Sprinkle this mixture over the bread. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top.
  5. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is key for the custardy texture.
  6. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Remove the plastic wrap from the dish.
  7. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown on top, and the center is set (no liquid remains when tested with a knife).
  8. Let the baked french toast casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup.

Notes

  • Using brioche or challah bread yields the best, softest results for this custardy french toast.
  • If you are short on time, you can assemble this recipe up to 24 hours in advance.
  • For an extra layer of flavor, add 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries over the top before chilling.

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