If you’re not a morning person but love having a delicious breakfast, then this recipe is for you! All the prep work is done the night before, so all you need to do in the morning is bake it to golden brown perfection and add your favorite French toast toppings. Of course, we all love Traditional French Toast, but this make ahead French toast bake takes your French toast game to the next level! It’s perfect for busy holidays, birthdays, other special occasions, or any day you want to make extra special. By allowing the bread slices to soak overnight in the heavenly custard concoction, you can ensure that every bite is bursting with flavor. For more delicious and easy-to-make hot breakfast casseroles, try my Easy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole, Green Chili Egg Casserole, and this Biscuits and Gravy Casserole.
Why We Love This Recipe
One of the great things about this overnight French toast recipe is its simplicity. The bread slices are layered in a casserole dish, covered in an egg mixture, and left to soak overnight, making it a hassle-free option for a morning feast! Whether you’re planning a holiday breakfast or a special occasion brunch, this baked French toast casserole is versatile enough to be a hit at any gathering. Feel free to get creative with toppings! A dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a serving of fresh berries can add an extra layer of deliciousness to this breakfast bake. With its sweet and savory balance, this make-ahead French toast is bound to be a favorite among the entire family. The aroma alone is enough to gather everyone around the table.
What You’ll Need
Scroll down to the recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
Bread – Brioche bread is the best bread for this recipe, as it has a deliciously rich and buttery flavor. Ensure it’s stale or dried out to absorb the egg mixture effectively. Butter – Use salted butter to add a creamy, rich texture and flavor that enhances the flavors of this dish. Unsalted butter can also be used; just add a pinch of salt to the mix as well. Light brown sugar – Adds a delightful sweetness with a hint of molasses for depth of flavor. White sugar can be a substitute, but the flavor profile will slightly differ. Eggs – They act as the binding agent, giving the casserole its structure. You can’t make French toast without eggs! Evaporated milk – Helps add a rich creaminess to the dish. You can use cream or any kind of milk instead, if you prefer, although it won’t have quite the same rich, custardy flavor. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg – These classic spices add warmth and a depth of flavor to the dish. Vanilla extract – Adds another layer of sweetness and warmth. Salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness a bit. Chopped pecans – Add these for a crunchy texture. Feel free to omit or replace them with walnuts or chopped almonds, if you prefer. For serving – We love to use maple syrup, honey, powdered sugar, and fresh berries as some of our favorite topping options. Choose a combination of your favorites to complement the flavors of this casserole.
How to Make Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe
Tips for Success
Opting for day-old bread or bread that has been left out to dry will yield the best results, as it absorbs the egg mixture more effectively, leading to a more flavorful and textured casserole. Before baking, let the casserole sit at room temperature for about an hour. This step ensures even baking and helps the casserole reach its full flavor potential. Don’t hesitate to get creative! Top your casserole with fresh berries, powdered sugar, or whatever your heart desires. The goal is to create a breakfast dish that’s tailored to your taste buds. For the most decadent French toast casserole, patience is key. Allowing the bread to soak up the egg mixture overnight ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
Whole milk or heavy cream can be used in place of evaporated milk for a similar creamy texture. For a dairy-free version, almond milk and soy milk are good options, though they may alter the texture and flavor slightly. Honey is a delicious alternative for drizzling instead of maple syrup, if you prefer. Any kind of fresh berry will add a burst of freshness and flavor to your dish.
More Breakfast Recipes
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Add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey on top of the French toast casserole to elevate its sweetness and make every bite even more delectable. Add some Homemade Whipped Cream to your portion for something even more indulgent! A glass of orange juice or a cup of your favorite coffee or tea will complement the flavors and complete your breakfast experience. You could even try my Pumpkin Pie Smoothie for a refreshing and decadent drink!
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