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Overnight French Toast Casserole for a Crowd

A close-up of a golden brown slice of Overnight French toast casserole topped with pecans and syrup.
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Prepare this make ahead French toast casserole the night before for an easy, delicious baked French toast breakfast casserole when you host your next brunch crowd.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (16 ounces) thick-cut bread, such as challah or brioche, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. This creates your custard base.
  3. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid.
  4. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  5. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the plastic wrap.
  6. In a small bowl, mix the chopped nuts, melted butter, and brown sugar to create the crunchy topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the soaked bread.
  7. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and the center is set (a knife inserted near the center comes out clean).
  8. Let the baked French toast casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use day-old bread. The slightly dry texture absorbs the custard better.
  • If you prefer a less sweet topping, reduce the brown sugar to 1 tablespoon.
  • Serve with maple syrup or fresh berries.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://daisyrecipe.com/overnight-french-toast-casserole-secret/