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Overnight French Toast Bake Recipe

4.6 from 50 reviews

This Overnight French Toast Bake is a simple and delicious make-ahead breakfast casserole. Layers of bread soaked in a cinnamon and sugar egg mixture create a custardy, sweet, and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy mornings. Refrigerated overnight and baked until puffed and golden, it’s an effortless way to impress family or guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 6 cups of bread, cubed (about 1 loaf, day-old or slightly stale works best)

Custard Mixture

  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the bread: Cube the bread into bite-sized pieces and place them evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to create the base of your casserole.
  2. Make the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon until fully combined and smooth.
  3. Assemble the bake: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, gently pressing the bread down so it soaks up the mixture well. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil.
  4. Refrigerate overnight: Place the covered dish in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight. This soaking period allows the bread to absorb the custard deeply, developing rich flavor and texture.
  5. Bake the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator, uncover it, and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the mixture is puffed, golden brown on top, and set in the center.
  6. Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, drizzle with maple syrup, dust with powdered sugar, or add fresh fruit for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Use slightly stale or day-old bread for best texture and absorption.
  • Whole milk creates a richer custard, but you can substitute with 2% or non-dairy milk if preferred.
  • You can add vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) or nutmeg to the custard for extra depth of flavor.
  • This dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and baked fresh in the morning.
  • Leftovers keep well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.

Keywords: French toast bake, overnight breakfast casserole, baked French toast, cinnamon French toast, make-ahead breakfast