Name: Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf French bread (about 14 oz), cubed; 8 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons melted butter; Powdered sugar for dusting; Fresh berries or maple syrup

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 12 reviews

I absolutely adore this Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe because it perfectly combines the comforting, nostalgic flavors of classic French toast with the ease of make-ahead convenience. Imagine waking up to a beautifully baked, custardy casserole with a golden crust that practically melts in your mouth. It’s one of my favorite go-to dishes for leisurely weekend mornings or special brunches with loved ones, and the aroma filling my kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe

What makes this recipe truly special for me is its incredible blend of warm spices, rich custard, and that slightly crisp yet tender texture from baking the cubes of French bread. The hint of cinnamon combined with the brown sugar and vanilla creates such an inviting flavor that feels cozy and indulgent but never overwhelming. It’s like a hug in food form, perfect for those moments when you want to treat yourself and those around you.

Another thing I appreciate about this Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe is how effortless it is to prepare. You just combine all the ingredients, pour the custard over the bread, and pop it in the fridge overnight. The next morning, a quick bake transforms it into a warm, bubbly masterpiece that looks like you spent hours on it. It’s ideal for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or when you’re hosting friends and want a show-stopping yet stress-free dish. Honestly, this recipe has become a staple because it never fails to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an arrangement of baking ingredients placed on a white marbled surface. There are twelve white dishes of different sizes holding various items: four square pieces of cinnamon sugar-coated cake in the top left; a bowl of white sugar above the cake; a plate of six brown eggs to the right; a plate of four yellow butter slices in the center; a dish of white flour to the right of the butter; a small bowl of brown sugar below the cake; a small bowl of ground cinnamon to the right of the brown sugar; a small white dish containing salt and nutmeg mixture between the vanilla extract and cinnamon; a small bowl of dark jam or preserves below the vanilla extract; a small bowl of mixed fresh raspberries and blueberries to the right of the milk; a glass jug filled with milk at the bottom center; and a small dish of vanilla extract above the jam. The layout looks neat and ready for baking. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is delightfully simple, but each one plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance of flavors, textures, and richness. From the cubed French bread soaking up the custard to the spices that bring warmth, every component has its purpose.

French bread: Using a sturdy loaf gives the casserole structure while soaking up all those delicious custard flavors.
Large eggs: They bind everything together and help create that luscious, creamy custard texture.
Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness without overpowering the other elements.
Heavy cream: For extra creaminess and indulgence, making each bite heavenly.
Brown sugar: Introduces a subtle caramel-like sweetness that deepens the flavor.
Vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the overall aromatic profile.
Ground cinnamon: The classic spice that adds warmth and cozy notes.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance and elevate all the flavors.
Melted butter: To drizzle on top for a golden, luscious finish.
Powdered sugar: Perfect for dusting and adding a delicate sweetness right before serving.
Fresh berries or maple syrup (optional): For serving, adding freshness or a natural sweetness contrast.

Directions

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined and smooth. This custard mixture is the heart of the dish, so make sure everything is well incorporated.

Step 2: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray. Then spread the cubed French bread evenly across the bottom of the dish to create a uniform layer ready to soak up the custard.

Step 3: Pour the custard mixture slowly over the cubed bread, making sure to press down lightly on the bread cubes with a spatula or your hands so that each piece absorbs the custard well. This soaking step is crucial for an ultra-moist yet structured casserole.

Step 4: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it overnight for at least 8 hours. This gives the bread ample time to soak up all the custard flavors and spices.

Step 5: The next morning, remove the casserole from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 15–20 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get ready for baking.

Step 6: Bake the casserole covered with aluminum foil for 30 minutes. This keeps the top from burning while ensuring the center is baking through gently.

Step 7: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown on top and puffed up beautifully. You want that gorgeous crust that adds texture and color.

Step 8: Once out of the oven, drizzle the melted butter evenly over the casserole and dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch before serving.

Step 9: Serve warm with fresh berries or a generous drizzle of maple syrup if you like extra sweetness or fruitiness. Enjoy every forkful!

Servings and Timing

This Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe makes about 8 generous servings, which is perfect for a family breakfast or a brunch gathering with friends. Prep time is straightforward—around 10 to 15 minutes mainly for whisking and assembling the dish. The resting time in the fridge is the longest part—ideally overnight, about 8 hours—to allow full custard absorption. Baking takes approximately 50 to 55 minutes total, divided between covered and uncovered baking. Altogether, including prep and bake, plan for around 1 hour and 10 minutes of active cooking time, plus your resting time in the fridge, but the results are so worth it!

How to Serve This Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe

A white plate holds two thick, soft, golden brown bread pudding pieces with a slightly crunchy top, covered in a glossy layer of syrup. The pudding is sprinkled with small, crunchy pecans. On the side of the plate, a few fresh blueberries and a whole strawberry add a pop of color. The plate rests on a white marbled surface, and a small glass cup of dark syrup is blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When it comes to serving this dish, I love to keep things simple yet lovely. I usually plate portions warm, as right out of the oven it’s incredibly comforting and indulgent. Fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a vibrant, fresh burst that balances the richness, plus their color makes the dish look stunning. I also enjoy a light drizzle of pure maple syrup to complement the natural caramel notes of the brown sugar in the casserole.

If I’m serving guests or for a holiday brunch, I like to dust the casserole generously with powdered sugar just before serving, giving it that picture-perfect finish. Pairing it with freshly brewed coffee or a mimosa feels so festive, while a cup of chai tea beautifully echoes the cinnamon and vanilla flavors. For more relaxed breakfasts, a simple glass of cold milk or orange juice works beautifully to round out the meal without overwhelming those lovely warm spices.

Portion size-wise, I tend to serve about one to one and a half cups per person, especially if it’s part of a larger brunch spread with side dishes like bacon, fresh fruit salad, or yogurt parfaits. This casserole is also fantastic for cozy family breakfasts or even casual gatherings where you want to offer something impressive but effortless. It tastes just as good fresh and warm but also keeps well if you want to enjoy leftovers later.

Variations

I love experimenting with this Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe to keep it exciting. One easy variation I recommend is swapping out the French bread with brioche or challah for an even richer, softer texture that soaks up the custard beautifully. If you want a healthier twist, using whole grain or gluten-free bread ensures everyone can enjoy it without sacrificing flavor or texture.

For dietary needs like vegan preferences, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (ground flaxseed mixed with water) and use a combination of almond milk and coconut cream instead of dairy. The flavor will shift slightly but remain delicious and custardy thanks to the creaminess.

Flavor-wise, try adding a splash of orange zest or a teaspoon of nutmeg to the custard for a bright, seasonal touch. You might also sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before baking to introduce a satisfying crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft interior. For an indulgent spin, stirring in chocolate chips or swapping the brown sugar for maple sugar offers a decadent difference. I’ve even baked this casserole in individual ramekins as a creative way to serve personalized portions.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

When I have leftovers, I let the casserole cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container or covering the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. Stored in the refrigerator, it keeps wonderfully for about 3 to 4 days. This makes it perfect for quick breakfasts throughout the week or even a simple snack.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well, although the texture is best when fresh. To freeze, I usually cut the casserole into individual portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them together in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen portions can last up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer warming leftovers in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15 minutes, uncovered, until heated through. This method helps the casserole regain some of its crispness on the edges. Microwave reheating works for convenience but can make the texture a bit soggy or rubbery, so I avoid that when possible. A quick broil for a minute or two after microwaving can help bring back some that lovely golden finish too.

FAQs

Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While French bread is traditional for this casserole because of its structure, you can also use challah, brioche, or even sturdy whole grain breads. Just make sure the bread is somewhat firm so it holds up well after soaking overnight.

How long can I refrigerate the casserole before baking?

I recommend refrigerating the casserole overnight, about 8 hours or up to 24 hours. This gives the bread plenty of time to absorb the custard fully, but any longer could make the bread overly soggy and affect the texture.

Can I prepare the casserole the same day and bake it immediately?

You can, but the custard won’t penetrate the bread as deeply without the overnight soak. The flavor and texture might be less developed, and the casserole won’t be as rich and custardy. For best results, plan ahead and let it soak overnight.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The classic recipe is not gluten-free because of the French bread, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free bread. Make sure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free, and you’re good to go.

Can I add fruits or nuts into the casserole before baking?

Yes! Adding fresh or frozen berries, chopped apples, or nuts like pecans or walnuts before baking adds great flavor, texture, and a personal touch. Just fold them gently into the bread cubes after pouring the custard and before refrigerating overnight.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to impress with a rich, comforting, and easy-to-prepare breakfast or brunch dish, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe. It brings together the best parts of French toast in a hands-off way that allows you to enjoy your morning stress-free. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen just like it has in mine!