Make-Ahead Overnight French Toast Casserole

Name: Make-Ahead Overnight French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf of French bread, cut into cubes; 8 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional); Maple syrup, for serving

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipes

This Make-Ahead Overnight French Toast Casserole is a delightful dish that combines the comfort of French toast with the convenience of being prepared the night before. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy family breakfast, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-13T20:57:49.804Z

This dish is a family favorite, perfect for lazy weekend mornings or special occasions. The combination of eggs, milk, and cinnamon-soaked bread creates a rich, custard-like texture that is simply irresistible.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Conveniently prepared the night before for a stress-free morning.
Deliciously satisfying, with a warm cinnamon flavor in every bite.
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings and mix-ins.

      

The Perfect Brunch Delight

When it comes to brunch, few dishes can compete with the charm of a French toast casserole. This Make-Ahead Overnight French Toast Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly practical, making it the ideal choice for gatherings with family and friends. With its rich flavors and aromatic spices, this casserole promises to keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Imagine waking up to the sweet scent of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through your kitchen. This dish combines the joy of French toast with the convenience of being prepared the night before, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with your guests rather than spending hours in the kitchen.

Customization Options

One of the best features of this French toast casserole is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Consider adding fresh fruits, such as blueberries, sliced bananas, or strawberries for a burst of flavor and color. Alternatively, for a richer taste, you might opt for chocolate chips or a sprinkle of nutmeg.

For those looking to cater to specific dietary restrictions, you can substitute the milk with almond or oat milk, and the bread can be swapped for gluten-free options. This makes the casserole accessible and delightful for everyone at your brunch table.

Tips for Success

To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly, use day-old French bread, as it absorbs the custard mixture better than fresh bread. If you only have fresh bread on hand, simply let it sit out for a few hours to dry out slightly before using it in the recipe.

Additionally, be mindful of the soaking time. Allowing the bread to soak overnight is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture. If you're short on time, a minimum of four hours will suffice, but the longer, the better for optimal flavor.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 loaf of French bread, cut into cubes
8 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Maple syrup, for serving

Be sure to let the casserole sit in the refrigerator overnight for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Casserole

In a large bowl, combine the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until well combined. Add the bread cubes and gently fold to coat them in the mixture. Transfer to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Chill Overnight

Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to soak up the custard mixture.

Make the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and nuts, if using. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole before baking.

Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and uncover it. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.

Serve

Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup and enjoy!

Feel free to top with fresh fruits or whipped cream for extra indulgence!

Serving Suggestions

This Make-Ahead Overnight French Toast Casserole is best served warm. Consider pairing it with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a savory touch that complements the sweetness of the dish. Freshly squeezed orange juice or a colorful fruit platter can also elevate your brunch experience.

For an extra indulgent treat, serve with whipped cream or a dollop of yogurt. The creamy textures will enhance the overall flavor and create a delightful contrast with the casserole.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is key to enjoying this dish later. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Reheating is simple; just pop individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This way, you can savor the deliciousness of your French toast casserole even days after your brunch gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat bread instead of French bread?

Yes, whole wheat bread can be used for a healthier option.

→ How long can I keep the leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with fresh fruit, yogurt, or additional maple syrup.