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Overnight Make-Ahead Baked French Toast Casserole

A thick, golden slice of baked french toast casserole topped with brown sugar streusel, served on a white plate.

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Prepare this fluffy French toast casserole the night before for an easy, stress-free breakfast or brunch serving a crowd.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Lightly 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.
  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°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap.
  6. Prepare the streusel topping: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and flour. Cut in the cold butter using your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  7. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the soaked bread.
  8. Bake 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 casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread for the best texture; it absorbs the custard better without becoming too soggy.
  • If you need to bake immediately, let the bread soak for at least 30 minutes before adding the topping and baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the bake time if you skip the overnight rest.
  • Serve with maple syrup or fresh berries.

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