Overnight French Toast Bake Recipe
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.
- Author: Lara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 65 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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
- 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.
- Make the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon until fully combined and smooth.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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