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Overnight Baked French Toast Casserole

A square slice of moist baked french toast topped with a thick, gooey cinnamon streusel, served on a white plate.

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Prepare this easy French toast casserole the night before for a simple, crowd-pleasing breakfast or brunch. It bakes up fluffy and custardy, perfect for busy mornings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (about 1 pound) thick-cut bread (brioche or challah recommended), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed (for topping)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for topping)
  • 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces (for topping)
  • Optional: 1 cup fresh or frozen berries

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish. If using berries, sprinkle them over the bread.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. This is your custard mixture.
  3. Slowly pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid.
  4. For the topping, combine the brown sugar and flour in a small bowl. Cut in the cold butter using your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  5. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the bread.
  6. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  7. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Remove the plastic wrap.
  8. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and the center is set (no liquid remains when poked).
  9. Let the baked french toast rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve warm with maple syrup.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use challah or brioche bread. Stale bread works best for absorbing the custard.
  • If you are short on time, you can bake this immediately after assembly, but allow it to soak for at least 30 minutes before baking.
  • This recipe is easily doubled for a larger crowd by using two dishes.

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