Description
This Overnight Vanilla Bean French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast that combines rich brioche with creamy custard for a sweet morning treat, perfect for gatherings or a cozy family brunch.
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
- â…“ 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. Add the bread cubes and spread them evenly without packing them down.
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Add the heavy cream, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, cardamom (if using), and salt; whisk until fully combined.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and gently press down to absorb the liquid. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours.
- In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add cold butter and rub into the sugar until small clumps form. Cover and refrigerate.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F the next morning and remove the casserole from the fridge.
- Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the soaked bread. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until golden and crisp on top.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving for the custard to fully set.
- Serve warm with powdered sugar, fresh berries, and a drizzle of warm maple syrup or honey.
Notes
Use day-old bread for the best texture and absorption of the custard.
This dish can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for gatherings.
Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 210mg