Description
This Overnight Vanilla Bean French Toast Casserole features delightful brioche and a rich custard, making it an irresistible, easy breakfast perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound day old brioche or challah, cut into 1–1½ inch cubes
- 7 large eggs
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1¾ cups whole milk
- ⅓ cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom (optional but recommended)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons cold butter, grated or finely diced
- powdered sugar
- fresh berries
- warm maple syrup or honey
Instructions
- Generously butter a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread the bread cubes into an even layer.
- Whisk the eggs in a large bowl until smooth. Then add heavy cream, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt. Whisk until combined.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread evenly. Press down gently with a spatula or your hands to help the bread absorb the liquid. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours.
- Mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl. Rub in cold butter with your fingers until small clumps form. Cover and refrigerate.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Take the casserole out of the fridge while the oven is heating.
- Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the soaked bread. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden and the center is somewhat set.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving so it sets fully.
- Serve warm with powdered sugar, fresh berries, and a drizzle of warm maple syrup or honey, if desired.
Notes
Using day-old bread helps achieve the perfect texture in the casserole.
Feel free to customize with your favorite fruits or nuts for additional flavor.
Leftovers can be reheated perfectly in the microwave or oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 150mg