The Best Make Ahead French Toast Casserole
This overnight French toast casserole has saved so many of my holiday mornings. I love being able to prep everything the night before then just pop it in the oven while we open presents or enjoy family time. The smell of cinnamon and vanilla filling the house brings everyone to the kitchen. It's become our special tradition for Christmas and whenever we have guests staying over.
Perfect for Special Mornings
My family thinks I'm a breakfast hero when I make this but honestly it's so simple. While everyone's still sleeping the casserole is doing its magic in the oven getting all custardy inside with that amazing crispy sweet top. I started making this when my kids were little and now they request it for every special occasion and weekend sleep over.
What You Need
- French Bread: 1 loaf slightly stale works best
- Eggs: 8 large ones for that rich custard
- Half and Half: 2 cups makes it extra creamy
- Milk: 1 cup whole milk is my favorite
- Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup just enough sweetness
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons splurge on the good stuff
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon for that cozy flavor
- Nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon fresh grated if you have it
- Butter: 1/4 cup for that amazing topping
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup makes everything caramelly
- Corn Syrup: 1 tablespoon optional but makes the top extra gooey
Time to Bake
- Layer Your Bread
- I arrange my bread slices in my favorite 9x13 baking dish sometimes overlapping them a bit to fill all the spaces
- Mix the Good Stuff
- In my big bowl I whisk together eggs half & half milk vanilla and those warm spices until everything looks smooth and creamy then pour it all over making sure every piece of bread gets some love
- Let it Rest
- Cover everything up pop it in the fridge and let it sit overnight. This is when all the magic happens as the bread soaks up all that custard goodness
- Add the Sweet Topping
- Before baking I mix butter brown sugar cinnamon and a little corn syrup then spread it over the top it gets so caramelly and amazing in the oven
- Bake it Up
- Into the 350°F oven it goes for about 35 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the top is golden brown and everything looks set
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My Best Tips
Want extra crispy edges? Use a bigger pan to spread things out more. I love adding chopped pecans to the topping for crunch. If you forget to prep the night before no worries just let it soak for a few hours. Fresh berries on top make it look fancy and taste amazing or keep it classic with maple syrup.
Saving Leftovers
Somehow we sometimes have leftovers and they're still delicious for days. Just pop them in the fridge they'll keep about 4 days. I warm up single servings in the microwave or put bigger portions in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. You can even freeze pieces wrapped really well for up to 3 months perfect for busy mornings.
More Breakfast Favorites
If you love this casserole you'll probably enjoy some other family favorites from my kitchen. My cherry danish disappears just as fast and my slow cooker breakfast casserole with sausage is another make ahead lifesaver. For special mornings try my strawberry donuts or that crowd pleasing crescent bacon ring.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this the same day?
Yes, dip bread slices in custard before arranging, then refrigerate 2-3 hours minimum before baking.
- → What kind of bread works best?
French bread, Texas toast, challah, or brioche all work well. Sourdough is also a good option.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze in airtight container up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat at 350°F for 10 minutes.
- → How do I get crispier texture?
Use a larger pan or split between two 9x13 pans to spread bread out more for crispier results.
- → Can I add nuts or fruit?
Add 1 cup chopped pecans to topping for crunch, or serve with fresh berries for a lighter option.