french toast casserole overnight
This Overnight French Toast Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast dish. By preparing it the night before, the flavors meld beautifully for a comforting morning treat. Baked to perfection, it is perfect for serving at family gatherings or holiday brunches.
Equipment
- 1 9x13-inch baking dish
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 whisk
- 1 measuring cups
- 1 measuring spoons
- 1 cutting board
- 1 aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 loaf bread, preferably brioche or challah About 16 ounces.
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup maple syrup For serving.
- powdered sugar For dusting, optional.
Instructions
- Begin by cutting the loaf of bread into bite-sized cubes. Place the cubes into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, distributing them evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the cubed bread in the baking dish, ensuring that all pieces are well soaked.
- Gently press down the bread cubes with a spatula to help them absorb the liquid. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight (for at least 4 hours).
- The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven heats.
- Bake the casserole, covered with the foil, for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, drizzled with maple syrup and optionally dusted with powdered sugar.
Notes
Feel free to add toppings such as fresh berries, sliced bananas, or chopped nuts before serving for added flavor and presentation.
You can prepare this casserole with different types of bread to vary the flavor, such as cinnamon raisin or sourdough.