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The Ultimate Make-Ahead Overnight French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

Close-up of a thick slice of french toast casserole with a rich, crumbly cinnamon streusel topping.

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Prepare this rich, custardy French Toast Casserole the night before for a stress-free morning. It bakes up golden with a crisp cinnamon streusel, making it a perfect crowd-pleasing breakfast for holidays or weekend brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (13-ounce) loaf brioche or sourdough bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of the granulated sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons of the cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. In a separate large bowl, whisk the eggs until blended. Whisk in the milk and vanilla extract until combined.
  5. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Press the bread down gently to help it absorb the custard.
  6. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  7. About 30 minutes before baking, prepare the streusel topping. In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly.
  8. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the plastic wrap from the casserole. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the bread.
  9. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and the center is set.
  10. Let the French Toast Casserole cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving warm. Serve with maple syrup if desired.

Notes

  • Using day-old or slightly stale bread works best for soaking up the custard without becoming mushy.
  • If you are short on time, you can bake this immediately after assembly, but allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes first.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute half of the whole milk with heavy cream.

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