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Overnight French Toast Casserole ready for baking in a glass dish.

Classic Overnight French Toast Casserole

Prepare this delightful French toast casserole the night before for an easy and delicious breakfast or brunch. The bread soaks up a rich custard, baking into a golden, puffed-up treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 7 hours 5 minutes
Servings 8 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large bowl

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 loaf Challah, Brioche, or French bread (13-16 ounces) day-old, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup plus more for serving
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • salt Pinch of

Optional Toppings/Mix-ins

  • fresh berries
  • chocolate chips
  • nuts
  • cream cheese
  • brown sugar
  • butter

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and arrange the 1-inch bread cubes evenly in it.
  • If using fresh bread, toast the cubes at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes until slightly dry, then let them cool completely.

Custard

  • In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.

Assembly & Refrigeration

  • Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are well-coated and submerged, gently pressing down any floating bread.
  • Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight (up to 24 hours), to allow the bread to soak.

Baking & Serving

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and let the casserole sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes while the oven heats.
  • Bake uncovered for 40-50 minutes until golden brown, puffed, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean; tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  • Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing, then drizzle with extra maple syrup and add desired toppings.

Notes

For best results, use day-old bread as it absorbs the custard better. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or mix-ins before baking, such as fresh berries, chocolate chips, or nuts. Adjust baking time as needed based on your oven and casserole thickness.