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Overnight Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

Overnight Pumpkin French Toast Casserole
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Overnight Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is a cozy, easy-to-make breakfast that combines rich autumn flavors with minimal prep. Creamy custard infused with pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla soaks sturdy bread overnight, then bakes to a golden, comforting dish perfect for fall mornings, holidays, or weekend brunches.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 6 cups sturdy bread (brioche, challah, or slightly stale white bread), cut into thick slices or cubes
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup or 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Warm Spices

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)

For Topping

  • 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces (optional, for dotting during baking)
  • Optional garnish: chopped toasted pecans, whipped cream, powdered sugar, additional maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Prep the Bread: Cut your chosen bread into thick slices or cubes, ensuring the pieces are uniform for even soaking. Arrange evenly in a greased baking dish to create a sturdy base for soaking the custard.
  2. Mix the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup or brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until smooth and fully combined. This custard mixture imparts rich flavor and moisture to the bread.
  3. Pour and Soak: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread in the baking dish. Gently press the bread down with a spoon or spatula to help absorb the custard thoroughly. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature while preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. Optionally, dot the top with small pieces of butter about halfway through baking to encourage a crisp, buttery crust.
  5. Serve Warm: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with optional toppings like whipped cream, chopped pecans, a drizzle of maple syrup, or powdered sugar for an extra comforting touch.

Notes

  • Use day-old or slightly stale bread to absorb the custard better without becoming mushy.
  • Do not skip soaking the casserole overnight; it ensures an irresistibly soft, custardy interior.
  • For added texture and flavor, sprinkle nuts, streusel, or oats on top before baking.
  • Let the casserole rest briefly after baking to make slicing easier and enhance flavor melding.
  • Adjust the spice quantities to suit your taste, and omit cloves for a milder flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin, overnight french toast casserole, fall breakfast, pumpkin spice, easy breakfast casserole, gluten-free breakfast

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