Description
This Overnight Vanilla Bean French Toast Casserole offers an irresistible blend of flavors with its rich custard-soaked brioche, enhanced by vanilla and cinnamon. Perfect for an easy morning treat or a special brunch!
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
Instructions
- Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish generously and add the bread cubes, spreading them evenly.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs until smooth, then add in heavy cream, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, cardamom (if using), and salt. Mix fully.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread and gently press the bread to absorb the liquid. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours.
- In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix in cold butter using your fingers until small clumps form. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- The next morning, preheat the oven to 350°F and take the casserole out of the fridge.
- Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the top of the soaked bread. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden and the center is set but soft.
- Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving to let the custard set.
- Serve warm with powdered sugar, fresh berries, and a drizzle of warm maple syrup or honey.
Notes
Use fresh eggs for the best flavor and texture.
Feel free to add nuts or other fruits for variations.
Prepare the casserole a day ahead for effortless brunch preparation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 210mg