Description

Treat yourself to Overnight Vanilla Bean French Toast Casserole, featuring soft bread soaked in a rich custard, perfectly sweetened for a delightful breakfast or brunch option.

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
⅓ 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

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Instructions

Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish generously and spread the bread cubes evenly without packing them down.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth, adding the cream, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently to ensure it absorbs the liquid. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours.
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix in cold butter until small clumps form. Cover and refrigerate.
Preheat the oven to 350°F the next morning. Take the casserole out of the fridge while the oven heats.
Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the soaked bread and bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until golden and set.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the custard to fully set.
Serve warm, topped with powdered sugar, fresh berries, and a drizzle of warm maple syrup or honey.

Notes

Feel free to use your favorite bread for this casserole, though brioche or challah recommended.
Make it ahead of time by soaking the bread overnight for a quick and easy breakfast.
Top with whipped cream for an extra treat!

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 9g
Cholesterol: 250mg