Waking up to a house smelling like sweet cinnamon is pure magic. It is the ultimate way to enjoy a slow, cozy winter morning. This Overnight French Toast takes all the stress out of your breakfast routine.
You can prep everything the night before. Then, you just pop it in the oven when you wake up. It is creamy, golden, and perfect for feeding a hungry family.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a total game-changer for busy mornings. You do all the work while the kids are asleep. It turns simple bread into a rich, custard-like treat. It is budget-friendly and uses pantry staples you likely have now.
The texture is what makes it so special. The bread gets soft and tender inside. The top stays beautifully golden and crisp. It is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any holiday or weekend gathering.
Simple Cooking Steps
Making this dish is incredibly simple and satisfying. You just cube your bread and whisk a few ingredients together. Even beginner cooks can master this with ease. There is no standing over a hot stove flipping individual slices.
The secret is letting it rest in the fridge. This allows the bread to soak up every drop of flavor. You will love how effortless and doable this feels. It is the best way to host a stress-free brunch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Using high-quality bread like brioche makes a huge difference here. These simple ingredients create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
- 16 ounces brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 0.5 cups heavy cream
- 0.75 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for greasing
Step-by-Step Directions
- Thoroughly coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with unsalted butter.
- Distribute the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until the mixture is fully emulsified and the sugar has partially dissolved.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring every piece is coated.
- Press down lightly on the bread to facilitate absorption, then cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the dish for a minimum of 8 hours, or up to 24 hours, to allow the bread to fully hydrate.
- Preheat a conventional oven to 350°F (177°C) and remove the dish from the refrigerator to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
- Remove the plastic wrap and bake the casserole for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Allow the dish to rest for 5 to 10 minutes at room temperature before slicing and serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this warm with a generous drizzle of maple syrup. Fresh berries add a lovely brightness to the rich custard. You can also dust the top with powdered sugar. It looks beautiful on a holiday table.
Pair it with crispy bacon or savory sausage. A fresh fruit salad on the side is perfect. Set the table and enjoy a slow, happy morning with your family.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the dish tightly covered with foil or plastic wrap. To reheat, place a slice in the oven at 350°F. This helps keep the edges nice and crisp.
You can also use the microwave for a quick snack. It will be softer but still delicious. This recipe is great for meal prep during a busy week. Just grab a square and go!
Tips for Best Results
- Use stale or slightly dry bread for the best texture.
- Don’t skip the 8-hour soak for a creamy center.
- Grease your baking dish well so nothing sticks.
- Swap the whole milk for half-and-half for extra richness.
- For Christmas morning, add a pinch of extra nutmeg.
- Press the bread down gently to ensure it hits the liquid.
- Let it rest after baking so the custard sets perfectly.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Sprinkle a handful of chopped pecans on top before baking.
- Scatter fresh blueberries over the bread for a fruity twist.
- Use gluten-free brioche to make this allergy-friendly.
- Add a layer of cream cheese cubes for extra decadence.
Common Questions
Can I use regular white sandwich bread?
You can, but it might get a bit mushy. Thicker breads like brioche or challah hold up much better. They absorb the custard without falling apart.
How do I know when it is done?
The center should feel firm and not jiggly. The top will be golden and slightly puffed. A knife inserted in the middle should come out clean.
Can I bake it right away?
It is best to let it soak for at least 4 hours. However, the overnight soak is truly best for hydration. It ensures every bite is soft and flavorful.
I hope this cozy recipe brightens your winter mornings. It is the perfect way to show your family some love. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Overnight French Toast
Ingredients
- 16 ounces brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large egg s
- 2 cups whole milk
- 0.5 cups heavy cream
- 0.75 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for greasing
Instructions
- Thoroughly coat a 9x13 inch baking dish with unsalted butter.
- Distribute the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until the mixture is fully emulsified and the sugar has partially dissolved.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring every piece is coated.
- Press down lightly on the bread to facilitate absorption, then cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the dish for a minimum of 8 hours, or up to 24 hours, to allow the bread to fully hydrate.
- Preheat a conventional oven to 350°F (177°C) and remove the dish from the refrigerator to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
- Remove the plastic wrap and bake the casserole for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Allow the dish to rest for 5 to 10 minutes at room temperature before slicing and serving.
