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Make Ahead Overnight French Toast Bake

Overnight French toast bake with streusel topping and blueberries in maple syrup
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This is the ultimate time-saving brunch centerpiece. Assemble it the night before for a perfectly custardy, flavorful bake that fills your home with the warm scent of cinnamon. Simple ingredients create a comforting dish that feels like home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (16 oz) French bread or brioche, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • For the Streusel Topping (Optional):
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Spread the cubed bread evenly in the prepared dish.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until well blended.
  4. Whisk in the milk, cream, both sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
  5. Slowly and evenly pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes. Gently press down on the bread to ensure all pieces are submerged.
  6. If making the streusel, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  7. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or up to 12.
  8. When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the dish sit on the counter while the oven heats.
  9. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the soaked bread, if using.
  10. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
  11. Let the bake cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Using slightly stale bread yields the best texture. Do not skip the overnight soak, as it ensures even custard absorption. The bake can be assembled and frozen for up to 2 months; thaw completely in the refrigerator before baking.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.stacksipsnack.com/make-ahead-overnight-french-toast-bake/