Overnight French Toast Casserole

Name: Overnight French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 loaf of challah or brioche bread (cut into cubes); 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Pinch of salt; Powdered sugar for serving

Wake up to the sweet aroma of baked bread, cinnamon, and maple syrup with this overnight french toast casserole. Perfect for lazy weekends or holiday brunches, this dish allows you to prepare it the night before, ensuring a stress-free morning. The combination of fluffy bread and rich custard creates a comforting meal that everyone will love. Serve it with fresh fruit or a drizzle of syrup for an unforgettable treat!

Ingredients

– 1 loaf of challah or brioche bread, cut into cubes
– 6 large eggs
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
– Powdered sugar for serving

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 8-10 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is about 45-50 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 300 calories, 12g of fat, 36g of carbohydrates, 10g of protein, and 5g of sugar. This is based on a serving size of 1 slice.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Place the cubed bread in a greased baking dish.
3. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
4. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
7. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, until golden brown and set.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
9. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
10. Enjoy warm with syrup or fresh fruit!

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute challah or brioche with whole grain bread for a healthier option. Almond milk or oat milk can replace regular milk for a dairy-free version. Feel free to add fruits like blueberries or bananas to the mixture for added flavor.

Serving and Pairings

This overnight french toast casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or maple syrup. You can also serve it alongside crispy bacon or sausage for a complete breakfast spread.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen before baking for up to 2 months.

Cooking Mistakes

Not soaking the bread long enough can lead to dry spots.
Using stale bread can affect texture; fresh bread is best.
Overbaking will result in a tough texture.
Skipping the resting time can result in uneven cooking.
Not using enough custard can leave parts of the casserole dry.

Helpful Tips

Use a mix of bread types for added flavor and texture.
For a sweeter dish, increase sugar or add chocolate chips.
Cover with foil in the first half of baking to prevent over-browning.
Let it cool slightly before cutting to maintain its shape.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Yes, this dish is designed to be prepared the night before, allowing the bread to soak in the custard overnight for optimal flavor and texture.

What type of bread works best?

Challah or brioche are ideal for their sweetness and texture, but you can use any bread you prefer, including whole grain or sourdough.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free bread and ensure that all other ingredients, like milk and sugar, are also gluten-free.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The casserole is done when it’s golden brown on top and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Conclusion

Overnight french toast casserole is a delightful dish that simplifies brunch without sacrificing flavor. With its rich custard and soft bread, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to your taste. Perfect for gatherings, this dish ensures you start your day on a delicious note!