Description
A delightful and easy overnight French toast casserole, perfect for Christmas morning. This recipe combines creamy custard with the classic flavors of creme brulee for a decadent breakfast treat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf (1 pound) challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- For the topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, heavy cream, 3/4 cup sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to ensure all pieces are soaked.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 8 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup sugar, melted butter, and pecans (if using).
- Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the top of the French toast casserole.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a crispier topping, you can sprinkle a little extra sugar on top just before baking.
- If you don’t have challah or brioche, French bread can be substituted.
- Serve warm with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1/8 of casserole)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Overnight French Toast, Creme Brulee French Toast, Christmas Breakfast, Make Ahead Breakfast, Baked French Toast, Custard French Toast