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Overnight French Toast Casserole ready for baking in a glass dish.

Classic Overnight French Toast Casserole

This classic overnight French toast casserole is perfect for a crowd, offering a delightful combination of soft bread soaked in a sweet, spiced custard, baked to golden perfection, and optionally topped with a buttery streusel.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the French Toast Casserole
  • 1 loaf (1 pound) French bread, challah, or brioche cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Streusel Topping (Optional)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
  • ¼ cup cold unsalted butter cut into small pieces
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large bowl
  • whisk
  • plastic wrap
  • small bowl
  • pastry blender (optional)

Method
 

Prepare the Bread
  1. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and arrange the 1-inch bread cubes evenly in it.
Make the Custard
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
Soak Overnight
  1. Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, pressing gently to absorb the liquid, then cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours.
Prepare Streusel (if using)
  1. Before baking, remove the casserole from the fridge, then combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon, cutting in cold butter until crumbly.
Bake
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), sprinkle with streusel if desired, and bake for 45-55 minutes until golden and set.
Serve
  1. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.

Notes

For best results, allow the bread to soak overnight to fully absorb the custard. You can prepare this casserole ahead of time, making it a perfect option for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Serve with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or powdered sugar.