Description
This Overnight French Toast recipe is a comforting and delicious make-ahead breakfast casserole featuring day-old French bread soaked in a rich custard mixture, topped with a buttery crumb topping and fresh berries. Perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal morning prep, it bakes to golden perfection with a sweet, cinnamon-infused flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf day-old French bread, cubed (about 10 cups)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 7 large eggs
- ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch Kosher salt
- 1 cup berries (frozen is fine)
Crumb Topping
- ½ cup salted butter, cubed
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Butter or grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving after baking.
- Layer the bread: Evenly distribute 10 cups of cubed French bread into the casserole dish, forming approximately two layers to create a sturdy base.
- Make the custard mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, beat together 2 cups whole milk, 7 large eggs, ¾ cup packed light brown sugar, ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of Kosher salt until fully combined and smooth.
- Soak the bread: Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the layered bread cubes, carefully coating each piece to ensure maximum custard absorption for a moist, flavorful french toast.
- Chill the casserole: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard fully.
- Prepare the crumb topping: In a separate medium bowl, combine ½ cup cubed salted butter, ½ cup all-purpose flour, and ½ cup packed light brown sugar. Use a pastry cutter or two knives to cut the butter into the flour and sugar mixture until crumbly. Cover and chill until ready to use.
- Preheat the oven: When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure an even bake.
- Add the topping and berries: Sprinkle the chilled crumb topping evenly over the soaked bread, then evenly distribute 1 cup of berries on top to add color, texture, and fresh flavor.
- Bake the casserole: Place the uncovered casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The top should be lightly browned, and the center should be fully cooked and set when done.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove from the oven and serve warm, optionally topped with syrup or your favorite breakfast accompaniments for a perfect hearty meal.
Notes
- Using day-old French bread helps absorb the custard without becoming too soggy.
- Whole milk is preferred for richness, but you can substitute with 2% or a dairy-free alternative if desired.
- Allowing the casserole to soak overnight enhances flavor and texture.
- The crumb topping can be prepared earlier and stored in the fridge until baking.
- Frozen berries work well if fresh are not available—just thaw slightly before adding.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your oven; check for a set center and golden top.
