Irresistible Overnight Baked French Toast Recipe

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There’s something utterly magical about waking up to the smell of overnight baked French toast wafting through your kitchen. Imagine fluffy, custardy bread soaked in rich vanilla and sweet cinnamon, golden brown on top, and just waiting for a drizzle of maple syrup. sweet dessert bites perfect breakfast companion It’s like a warm hug from your breakfast. For more inspiration, check out this lemon cheesecake squares recipe.

This dish is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a delightful way to start special mornings, be it holidays or lazy weekends. The anticipation builds as you realize you can prepare everything the night before, leaving you free to enjoy your coffee and maybe even sleep in a little longer.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This overnight baked French toast is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to impress friends without breaking a sweat
  • The blend of creamy custard with toasted bread creates a flavor explosion in every bite
  • Visually stunning and aromatic, it will surely be the star of any brunch table
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with fruits or nuts based on what you love!

I still remember the first time I made this overnight baked French toast for my family; their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning when they took their first bites! baked oatmeal cups.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: savory English muffin pizzas.

  • Bread: Choose thick slices like brioche or challah for that perfect custardy texture.

  • Eggs: Large eggs work best; they create a rich custard base that holds everything together.

  • Milk: Use whole milk for creaminess or almond milk for a lighter option; both do wonders.

  • Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth; feel free to sprinkle extra on top for more flavor.

  • Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates the sweetness; avoid imitation for the best results.

  • Maple Syrup: A must-have topping; nothing beats drizzling real maple syrup over this delight!

  • Fresh Fruit (optional): Berries or sliced bananas add freshness and color; toss them in when serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare yourself for baking bliss as we dive into creating this morning masterpiece!

Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients on the counter; this makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Prepare the Bread: Cut your bread into thick slices about an inch thick. Arrange these slices neatly in a greased baking dish, overlapping them slightly if needed.

Create the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should look smooth and creamy.

Pour Over Bread Slices: Gently pour the custard mixture over the arranged bread slices, ensuring each piece gets its fair share of that delicious goodness.

Cover and Refrigerate Overnight: Cover your baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge overnight. Letting it sit allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Bake in the Morning!: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!

Now you have an incredible dish ready to serve! Don’t forget to slice it up generously and drizzle some maple syrup over each portion before diving into breakfast bliss. Enjoy!

You Must Know

  • Overnight baked French toast transforms breakfast from mundane to magical; it’s perfect for lazy Sunday brunches or holiday gatherings
  • The rich aroma wafting through your home will make everyone eager to dig in
  • Plus, it’s easy to prep the night before, saving you time and stress

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by whisking eggs and milk together, then soak the bread overnight. In the morning, bake until golden brown. This sequence ensures a deliciously custardy inside with a crisp top.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Customize your overnight baked French toast by adding vanilla extract or cinnamon for extra warmth. Fresh fruits or nuts can also elevate your dish and bring in delightful textures. For more inspiration, check out this watermelon feta salad recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to retain its fluffy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use stale bread for better absorption of the egg mixture; fresh bread can become too soggy
  • Experiment with different toppings like maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit to keep things exciting
  • Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving for easier slicing and presentation

Sharing this recipe takes me back to my childhood when my mom surprised us on weekends with her famous French toast. The entire house would smell like vanilla and cinnamon; it was pure bliss.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use gluten-free bread for this recipe?

Yes, gluten-free bread works well; just ensure it’s sturdy enough for soaking.

How long can I store leftover baked French toast?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days if properly sealed.

Can I prepare this dish without eggs?

Absolutely! Substitute eggs with mashed bananas or a flaxseed mixture for a vegan version.

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Overnight Baked French Toast


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  • Author: Larissa W.
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

Overnight baked French toast is a delightful breakfast treat that combines fluffy bread with a rich custard infused with vanilla and cinnamon. Prepared the night before, this dish allows for a stress-free morning, perfect for holidays or leisurely weekends. Drizzle with maple syrup and add fresh fruit for an unforgettable brunch experience.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices brioche or challah bread
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk (or almond milk)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (for serving)
  • Fresh berries or sliced bananas (optional)

Instructions

  1. Assemble all ingredients.
  2. Cut the bread into thick slices and arrange in a greased baking dish.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla until smooth.
  4. Pour the custard mixture over the bread slices, ensuring even coverage.
  5. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
  6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 41g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 210mg

Tags:

baked French toast / breakfast recipe / cinnamon toast / fluffy bread / holiday brunch / maple syrup / overnight breakfast

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