Description
A rich and comforting overnight French toast casserole made with fluffy bread soaked in a sweet cinnamon custard, then baked until golden and tender.
Ingredients
- 16 ounce loaf country bread (or a fluffy french loaf, day-old preferred)
- 3 1/2 cups half & half
- 8 large eggs
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed, plus 1 tbsp for top)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Butter a 9 x 13 inch (3 quart) baking dish and set aside.
- Cut the bread into 1 to 1 1/2 inch chunks and spread evenly in the prepared dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the half & half, eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until fully combined.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Remove the plastic wrap and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until golden brown and slightly puffed in the center.
- Check doneness by inserting a knife into the center; if it comes out wet, bake an additional 5 minutes as needed.
- Cut into 12 portions and serve warm.
Notes
- Day-old bread works best for absorbing the custard without becoming soggy.
- For extra sweetness, sprinkle the reserved tablespoon of brown sugar over the top before baking.
- Can be prepared the night before for an easy breakfast.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
