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Overnight French Toast Bake

Overnight French Toast Bake
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Overnight French Toast Bake is a rich, creamy breakfast casserole that you prepare the night before. Cubes of day-old sturdy bread are soaked in a custard mixture of eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon, then baked to golden perfection. This easy, make-ahead dish is perfect for busy mornings, feeding a crowd, and can be customized with toppings such as fresh fruit, nuts, or maple syrup. Its warm, aromatic flavors and soft, decadent texture create a comforting start to your day.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 6 cups day-old sturdy bread (brioche or challah), cut into cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk or cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened and divided

Optional Toppings

  • Fresh fruit (berries, diced apples, etc.)
  • Maple syrup
  • Toasted nuts (pecans or walnuts)
  • Chocolate chips
  • Powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Cut your chosen day-old bread into cubes and evenly spread them in a buttered baking dish to ensure even custard absorption.
  2. Mix the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and fully combined.
  3. Combine and Soak: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, gently pressing the pieces down so that every cube is thoroughly soaked with custard.
  4. Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard fully and for flavors to meld.
  5. Bake Until Golden: The next morning, dot the top of the custard-soaked bread with tablespoons of softened butter, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set but still creamy inside.

Notes

  • Use sturdy day-old bread like brioche or challah for best texture and custard absorption.
  • Refrigerating overnight is essential to develop flavor and achieve the perfect custardy texture.
  • Freshly ground cinnamon or nutmeg enhances the depth of flavor.
  • Butter the baking dish well to prevent sticking and add richness to the crust.
  • Check doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight French toast bake, easy breakfast casserole, make-ahead breakfast, custard-soaked bread, brunch recipe, baked French toast

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/overnight-french-toast-bake/