Overnight French Toast Casserole

Name: Overnight French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 loaf of thick bread (like brioche or challah); 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Fresh berries (raspberries, blueberries, strawberries); Powdered sugar for serving

Start your day on a sweet note with this delightful overnight french toast casserole! This recipe allows you to prep the night before, making it ideal for busy mornings or special occasions. Imagine waking up to the comforting aroma of cinnamon and vanilla as this baked dish fills your kitchen. Topped with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s a breakfast treat that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning.

Ingredients

– 1 loaf of thick bread (like brioche or challah)
– 6 large eggs
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh berries (raspberries, blueberries, strawberries)
– Powdered sugar for serving

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 8 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/8 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g fat, 38g carbohydrates, and 10g protein. This is a general estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in the dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
5. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) the next morning.
7. Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden and a knife comes out clean.
9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
10. Top with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter option. Additionally, any type of bread can work, such as sourdough or whole wheat. For a dairy-free version, use almond milk and flax eggs instead of regular eggs.

Serving and Pairings

This casserole pairs beautifully with maple syrup, whipped cream, or a side of crispy bacon. Serve it alongside fresh fruit or a light salad for a complete brunch experience.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place servings in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes. It can be frozen before baking; just thaw and bake as directed.

Cooking Mistakes

Not letting the casserole sit overnight can result in dry bread.
Using stale bread will affect the texture; fresh bread is best.
Overbaking can lead to a rubbery texture; check for doneness early.
Forgetting to grease the dish can cause sticking.
Forgetting to let it sit at room temperature before baking can lead to uneven cooking.

Helpful Tips

Use a variety of bread for more flavor.
Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
Let it cool slightly before serving for easier slicing.
Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free bread in this recipe. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What can I do with leftover casserole?

Leftover casserole can be stored in the fridge and reheated. You can also repurpose it into a bread pudding dessert!

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! This casserole is designed to be made the night before, allowing the bread to soak up the custard.

How can I make it healthier?

Consider using whole grain bread, reducing the sugar, and substituting almond milk for regular milk.

What toppings work well with this casserole?

Fresh fruits, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar are great toppings to enhance flavor.

Conclusion

Overnight french toast casserole is a fantastic way to elevate your breakfast game with minimal effort. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family brunch, combining convenience with deliciousness. Enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to impress your loved ones!