Imagine waking up to the tantalizing aroma of a warm, sweet breakfast that’s ready to serve without any morning hassle. Our Make Ahead Overnight French Toast Casserole is the ultimate solution for busy mornings or festive brunches, combining the classic flavors of French toast with the convenience of a make-ahead dish. With just a bit of preparation the night before, you can impress your family and friends with a delightful, custardy casserole that’s perfect for sharing. Get ready to elevate your breakfast game and discover how this easy recipe can turn your mornings into a delicious celebration!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 65 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the bread by cutting the French bread into 1-inch thick slices. If the bread is fresh, let it sit out for an hour to slightly dry out, which helps it absorb the custard mixture better.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until completely smooth and well combined. Ensure no egg streaks remain.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the bread slices in the prepared baking dish, overlapping them slightly to create an even layer. You may need to cut some slices to fit properly.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture over the bread, making sure to cover each slice evenly. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, allowing the bread to soak up the custard mixture completely (8-12 hours).
- When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Drizzle maple syrup evenly over the top of the soaked bread.
- Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The casserole should be puffy and slightly crisp on the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with additional maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or whipped cream as desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, opt for a day-old French bread or let fresh bread sit out for an hour to dry slightly. This allows it to absorb the custard mixture without becoming too soggy.
- Whisk Thoroughly: Make sure to whisk the egg mixture until it’s completely smooth, with no streaks of egg visible. This ensures a uniform flavor throughout the casserole.
- Overnight Soaking: Don’t skip the overnight refrigeration! Allowing the bread to soak in the custard for 8-12 hours is key to achieving that rich, custardy texture.
- Room Temperature Before Baking: Let the casserole sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. This helps it cook evenly and prevents a cold center.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Fresh berries, powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate your dish even further.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp, while the center should be set. If it browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the casserole warm right out of the oven. Pair it with extra maple syrup for a deliciously sweet finish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 220mg
