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Cozy Overnight French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon

overnight french toast casserole - featured image

A comforting and easy overnight French toast casserole featuring cinnamon and a buttery brown sugar topping, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups cubed thick-cut bread (about 12 ounces or 340 grams), preferably brioche or challah
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
  • 1/3 cup (65 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 tablespoons (57 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) brown sugar
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • Optional: fresh berries

Instructions

  1. Cube the bread into roughly 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. Use stale or day-old bread for best soaking.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until just combined.
  3. Pour the custard mixture over the cubed bread. Gently press down the bread to help it soak. Let sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature or cover and refrigerate overnight.
  4. Mix brown sugar with melted butter to create the topping.
  5. Transfer the soaked bread mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
  6. Drizzle the butter and brown sugar topping evenly over the casserole. Sprinkle chopped nuts on top if using.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until the top is golden brown and custard is set. Cover loosely with foil if browning too fast.
  8. Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use sturdy bread like brioche, challah, or Texas toast for best results. Letting the casserole soak overnight ensures a custardy texture without sogginess. Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly. Rest before serving for easier slicing. Optional add-ins include nuts or fresh berries. Gluten-free and vegan adaptations are possible with substitutions.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast casserole, overnight breakfast, cinnamon, easy breakfast, brunch recipe, comfort food