Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast recipe that’s a guaranteed hit with family and guests.
Prepare this breakfast casserole the night before to savor a delicious baked French toast in the morning. Ideal for holidays and special occasions, this casserole simplifies your morning routine while delivering a scrumptious start to the day.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf French bread or thick Texas toast
- 8 eggs
- 2 cups half and half
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
Cinnamon Crunch Topping:
- 1 1/2 sticks butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tbsp light corn syrup (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions:
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Coat a 9″x13″ baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Slice the Bread: Cut the French bread into 1-inch thick slices and arrange them in rows in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they overlap.
- Prepare Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Ensure the slices are evenly covered by pouring the egg mixture over them. Spoon some mixture between the slices. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.
- Next Day Preparation: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Carefully flip each bread slice to ensure even coating.
- Prepare the Topping: In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, corn syrup (optional), cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread this mixture over the bread slices, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until the casserole is puffed and lightly golden.
Pro Tips and Tricks:
- To achieve a more baked/crisp texture, use a larger pan or two 9×13 pans to allow space between slices.
- Sliced sourdough bread from the bakery can be a time-saving alternative.
- Forgot to make it the night before? Soak the slices well, and proceed with the directions.
Storage and Reheating:
- Fridge: Allow the casserole to cool, cover with saran wrap or transfer to an airtight container, and store in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Reheating from the Fridge: Microwave your desired portion until warmed through.
- Freezing: Freeze leftovers in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating from Frozen: Thaw and bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Enjoy this hassle-free and delicious Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole for a delightful breakfast treat