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Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Streusel

A thick, square slice of baked overnight french toast with a rich, brown sugar crumb topping served on a white plate.

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Prepare this comforting French toast casserole the night before for a simple, crowd-pleasing breakfast or brunch the next morning. It soaks in a rich custard overnight and bakes up golden and soft.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (about 1 pound) thick-cut bread (like brioche or challah), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • For the Streusel Topping:
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions

  1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. This is your custard.
  3. Pour the custard mixture slowly and evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press the bread down with a spatula to help it absorb the liquid.
  4. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight.
  5. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap.
  6. Prepare the streusel: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  7. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the soaked bread.
  8. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and the center is set.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving warm. Serve with maple syrup or powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

  • Using day-old bread helps prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy during soaking.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with half-and-half.
  • This recipe is excellent for holiday breakfast gatherings or weekend brunch.

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