Print

Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe with Cinnamon Brown Sugar Topping

overnight French toast casserole - featured image

A comforting and easy-to-make overnight French toast casserole with a caramelized cinnamon brown sugar topping, perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups day-old brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Cut the brioche or challah into roughly 1-inch cubes. Spread them out on a baking sheet to dry slightly if your bread is very fresh (about 10 minutes).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined and slightly frothy (about 5 minutes).
  3. Place the bread cubes into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the custard evenly over the bread, gently pressing down so all pieces soak up the mixture. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours.
  4. In a small bowl, mix light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter until crumbly and combined (about 3 minutes).
  5. Remove the casserole from the fridge 30 minutes before baking to come closer to room temperature. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon brown sugar topping over the soaked bread.
  6. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges should be slightly crispy, and the center custardy but set.
  7. Let the casserole cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing to help it set and make serving easier.

Notes

Use day-old bread to prevent sogginess. Let eggs and dairy come to room temperature before mixing for even custard. If topping browns too fast, tent with foil halfway through baking. Soak casserole at least 6 hours or overnight for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight French toast casserole, cinnamon brown sugar topping, easy breakfast casserole, brunch recipe, make-ahead breakfast