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Ultimate Make-Ahead Overnight French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Streusel

A close-up of a square slice of moist french toast casserole topped with a thick cinnamon streusel.
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Prepare this rich, custardy French Toast Casserole the night before for an easy, crowd-pleasing breakfast or brunch. It bakes up with a soft interior and a crisp cinnamon streusel topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (about 1 pound) sturdy bread like brioche or challah, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for streusel)

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of the granulated sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons of the cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until blended. Whisk in the milk and vanilla extract.
  4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press the bread down to help it absorb the custard.
  5. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  6. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the plastic wrap.
  7. Prepare the streusel: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, melted butter, and flour. Mix until crumbly.
  8. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the soaked bread.
  9. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and the center is set.
  10. Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving warm. Serve with maple syrup if desired.

Notes

  • Using day-old or slightly stale bread helps the casserole maintain structure and absorb the custard better.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
  • This recipe works well with sourdough bread for a slightly tangier flavor profile.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyjade.com/french-toast-casserole-recipe-make-ahead/