MAKE-AHEAD BRUNCH

Overnight Cinnamon French Toast Bake

A custardy brioche casserole with a crisp cinnamon-brown-sugar topping and fresh berries.

Jump to Recipe
Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Total Time9 hrs 5 mins
Servings8
DifficultyEasy

Ingredients

For the French Toast

  • 1 loaf brioche or challah, about 14 ounces, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed

For Serving

  • Fresh berries
  • Powdered sugar
  • Maple syrup

Substitutions

  • Use a dairy-free baking stick in the crumb topping in place of butter.
  • Use sturdy French bread in place of brioche or challah; slightly dry bread absorbs the custard best.

Instructions

Step 1: Assemble the base

Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish and spread the bread cubes evenly inside.

Step 2: Add the custard

Whisk eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, and salt. Pour over the bread and press gently so the top pieces absorb some custard.

Add the custard for Overnight Cinnamon French Toast Bake

Step 3: Refrigerate overnight

Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours and up to 12 hours.

Step 4: Add the topping

Heat the oven to 350°F. Mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt; cut in the cold butter. Scatter over the casserole.

Add the topping for Overnight Cinnamon French Toast Bake

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered 40 to 45 minutes, until puffed, golden, and set in the center. Rest 10 minutes, then add berries, powdered sugar, and syrup.

Bake for Overnight Cinnamon French Toast Bake
Finished Overnight Cinnamon French Toast Bake ready to serve

How to Store Leftovers

Cover and refrigerate leftover French toast bake within 2 hours and use within 3 to 4 days. Keep berries, powdered sugar, and maple syrup separate so the baked surface does not become wet in storage.

How to Reheat

Cover the baking dish and warm portions in a 325°F oven until the custard center is hot; uncover for the last few minutes if you want the streusel surface to regain some crispness.

Add berries, powdered sugar, and maple syrup only after reheating.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient Per Serving
Calories 510
Protein 13g
Carbohydrates 66g
Fat 22g
Sugar 34g

Nutrition is an estimate and can vary with brands, portion size, and substitutions.

About the Author

FreshFork Recipes Team edits each recipe page for clear measurements, consistent instructions, and practical cooking guidance.

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