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Easy Make-Ahead French Toast Bake Overnight Recipe for Perfect Breakfast

easy make-ahead french toast bake overnight - featured image

A simple and delicious French toast bake that you prepare the night before for a hands-off, comforting breakfast with a custardy interior and crispy top.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups cubed day-old bread (thick-cut brioche or challah recommended)
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for creamier texture)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup chopped nuts (optional, pecans or walnuts)
  • Maple syrup for serving

Instructions

  1. Cube about 8 cups (12 ounces) of day-old bread into 1-inch cubes.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups whole milk, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth and combined.
  3. Place the bread cubes in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the custard evenly over the bread, pressing gently to ensure all pieces are soaked. Let sit for a few minutes.
  4. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the bake from the fridge but keep covered while oven heats.
  6. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and optional 1/3 cup chopped nuts. Sprinkle evenly over the soaked bread.
  7. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and custard is set. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
  8. Let the bake cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use day-old bread for best texture; fresh bread should be toasted or dried overnight. If top browns too fast, tent with foil. Customize with nuts, berries, chocolate chips, or spices. Can be made dairy-free or vegan with substitutions. Leftovers keep up to 3 days refrigerated and reheat well.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast bake, make-ahead breakfast, overnight French toast, easy breakfast casserole, cinnamon French toast, brunch recipe