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Ultimate Make-Ahead Overnight French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Streusel

Close-up of a moist slice of overnight french toast casserole topped with a thick, crunchy cinnamon streusel.

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Prepare this rich, custardy French Toast Casserole the night before for a stress-free morning meal. It bakes up fluffy with a sweet cinnamon sugar topping, making it a perfect crowd-pleasing breakfast centerpiece for brunch or holidays.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (13-ounce) loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the bread cubes.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
  5. Slowly whisk the melted butter into the egg mixture.
  6. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid.
  7. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  8. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the plastic wrap.
  9. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar to create the cinnamon sugar topping. Sprinkle this evenly over the top of the casserole.
  10. 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).
  11. Let the baked french toast casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving warm.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread for the best texture; it absorbs the custard better without becoming too mushy.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with half-and-half.
  • Serve with maple syrup or fresh berries for a complete brunch centerpiece.

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