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Overnight French Toast Casserole

A deliciously custardy and sweet Overnight French Toast Casserole with a crunchy topping, perfect for brunch gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 425

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 loaf (16 ounces) Brioche bread, cubed Feel free to substitute with challah.
  • 8 large eggs, room temperature, beaten Ensure eggs are at room temperature.
  • 2 cups whole milk, room temperature Don't skimp on the whole milk for flavor.
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, room temperature Creates a luscious custard.
  • 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed Dark brown sugar can be used for a more robust flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Use pure vanilla for the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon Can substitute with nutmeg if desired.
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Balances the sweetness.
Topping
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted Should be melted but not too hot.
For Serving
  • Confectioners' sugar, for garnish
  • Pure maple syrup, for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Add the cubed brioche in an even layer and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
  3. Pour the mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure all pieces are soaked. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Topping Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and kosher salt.
  2. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the mixture resembles large crumbs. Chill until ready to bake.
Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and sprinkle the topping evenly over the soaked bread.
  2. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
  3. Dust with confectioners' sugar and drizzle with pure maple syrup before serving.

Notes

Opt for high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Bread should be day-old or lightly toasted before soaking to prevent sogginess. Storage: leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.