There’s something truly magical about waking up to breakfast already waiting for you. Overnight French toast casserole is the kind of recipe that feels like a gift to your future self. Instead of standing over the stove flipping slices of bread one by one, you simply slide a baking dish into the oven and let the aroma of cinnamon, vanilla, and butter gently fill the house. It’s cozy, comforting, and perfect for slow mornings when everyone gathers around the table still wrapped in blankets.

This dish takes everything we love about classic French toast and transforms it into a crowd-pleasing casserole. Cubes of bread soak overnight in a rich custard made with eggs, milk, and cream, allowing every bite to become soft, tender, and deeply flavorful. By morning, all that’s left to do is bake until golden and puffed, creating a breakfast that feels special without being stressful.

Overnight French toast casserole has earned its place as a favorite for holidays, brunch gatherings, and family weekends. It’s dependable, forgiving, and endlessly customizable. Whether you keep it simple or dress it up with fruit, nuts, or a sweet topping, it always delivers warmth and comfort straight from the oven.

Ingredients:

1 loaf day-old bread (brioche, challah, or French bread), cut into cubes
8 large eggs
2 cups milk
½ cup heavy cream
¾ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Powdered sugar, for serving
Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions:

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter or nonstick spray.
Spread the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Slowly pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently so all pieces are soaked.
Drizzle the melted butter over the top.
Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 8 hours.
When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 175°C.
Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and serving with maple syrup.

Overnight French Toast Casserole

A rich, custardy baked French toast made ahead for an easy and comforting breakfast.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

Casserole Base

1 loaf bread cubed
8 large eggs
2 cups milk
0.5 cup heavy cream
0.75 cup brown sugar

Equipment

9×13 baking dish
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups

Method

Place bread cubes in a greased baking dish.
Whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and spices.
Pour custard over bread and refrigerate overnight.
Bake until golden and set.

Notes

Perfect for holidays and make-ahead breakfasts.

Tips & Tricks

Day-old or slightly stale bread works best because it absorbs the custard without becoming soggy.
For extra richness, replace part of the milk with more cream.
Letting the casserole rest overnight is key to the best texture and flavor.
If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during baking.

Variations

Add fresh berries or sliced bananas before baking.
Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for crunch.
Swirl in cream cheese cubes for a cheesecake-style twist.
Use pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a seasonal version.

Serving Suggestions
Serve overnight French toast casserole with crispy bacon, breakfast sausage, fresh fruit, or a simple yogurt parfait. It pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or fresh juice.

Storage Information
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQ
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, bake it first, cool completely, then freeze. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

Can I make it dairy-free?
You can substitute plant-based milk and cream alternatives, though the texture may vary slightly.

Do I have to refrigerate overnight?
For best results, yes. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard.

History / Fun Facts
French toast dates back centuries and was originally created as a way to use stale bread. The casserole version became popular as home cooks looked for make-ahead breakfast solutions for busy mornings and holiday gatherings.

Overnight French Toast Casserole – The Ultimate Make-Ahead Breakfast