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Easy Overnight Baked French Toast Casserole

Close-up of squares of moist baked french toast dusted generously with powdered sugar on a white plate.
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Make your weekend mornings simple with this make-ahead French toast casserole. You prepare the custard-soaked bread the night before, and bake it fresh in the morning for a stress-free, crowd-pleasing brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (13-ounce) loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions

  1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the bread cubes in an even layer in the prepared dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined. This creates your rich custard.
  3. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to help the bread soak up the liquid.
  4. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This soaking time is key for a fluffy texture.
  5. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Remove the plastic wrap from the dish.
  6. In a small bowl, mix the chopped pecans and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
  7. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and the center is set (no liquid remains when poked).
  8. Let the baked french toast rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup.

Notes

  • Using brioche or challah bread gives this casserole the best texture because of its richness.
  • For a holiday breakfast, you can assemble this casserole up to 24 hours ahead of time.
  • If you want a crispier top, you can add a simple streusel topping made from flour, brown sugar, and butter.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumdrizzle.com/baked-french-toast-casserole-recipe/