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Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe Perfect for Easter Brunch

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A simple and delicious overnight French toast casserole that soaks thick-cut bread in a spiced custard, perfect for a stress-free Easter brunch or any special breakfast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups thick-cut brioche or challah bread, cubed (about 1-inch pieces)
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • A pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Optional toppings: powdered sugar for dusting, chopped pecans or walnuts, fresh berries

Instructions

  1. Cube about 8 cups of brioche or challah bread into roughly 1-inch pieces. Place the bread cubes evenly in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups whole milk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
  3. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the casserole dish. Gently press down and fold the bread so it absorbs the custard. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
  4. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
  5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  6. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter over the top of the casserole.
  7. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set (a knife inserted in the center should come out clean). Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  8. Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes after baking. Dust with powdered sugar, sprinkle chopped nuts or fresh berries if desired, and serve warm with maple syrup on the side.

Notes

Use slightly stale bread for better custard absorption. Let the bread soak overnight for best texture. If casserole is soggy after baking, broil for 1-2 minutes to crisp the top. Use full-fat milk or half-and-half for richer custard. Adjust oven temperature if needed to avoid burning the top.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast casserole, overnight casserole, Easter brunch, easy breakfast, custard soaked bread, brioche casserole

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/easy-overnight-french-toast-casserole-recipe-perfect-for-easter-brunch/