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Ultimate Overnight French Toast Bake

Are you looking for a breakfast recipe that combines ease and decadence? The Ultimate Overnight French Toast Bake is a delightful dish that you can prepare the night before and bake to perfection in the morning, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 375
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the French Toast Bake
  • 1 loaf brioche or challah bread cut into 1-inch cubes (approximately 10-12 cups)
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional
For Serving
  • Powdered sugar

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Plastic Wrap
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • Sifter

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Start by greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will help prevent the bread from sticking and make for easy serving later.
  2. Step 2: Cut your brioche or challah bread into 1-inch cubes. Place the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish, ensuring there are no gaps.
  3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
  4. Step 4: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cubed bread. Use a spatula or your hands to gently press down on the bread, ensuring each piece is well-soaked in the liquid.
  5. Step 5: Drizzle the maple syrup over the top of the soaked bread. If you're using chopped pecans or walnuts, sprinkle them evenly across the top as well.
  6. Step 6: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the custard fully and enhances the flavors.
  7. Step 7: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) the next morning. Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish and place it in the preheated oven.
  8. Step 8: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
  9. Step 9: Once baked, allow the French toast bake to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch and serve with extra maple syrup on the side.

Notes

For an extra crispy top, you can broil the bake for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.