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Overnight Baked French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Streusel

A close-up of a square slice of baked french toast topped with rich cinnamon streusel, served on a white plate.

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Prepare this easy baked French toast casserole the night before for a stress-free, crowd-pleasing breakfast. It features a custardy center and a crunchy cinnamon streusel topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (about 1 pound) challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • For the Streusel Topping:
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. This creates your custard soaked bread base.
  3. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press the bread down to help it absorb the liquid.
  4. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This overnight French toast preparation ensures maximum flavor absorption.
  5. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  6. Prepare the streusel topping: In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  7. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the soaked bread.
  8. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and the center is set.
  9. Let the baked French toast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Using challah or brioche bread gives this baked bread pudding style breakfast the best texture.
  • For a make ahead breakfast, you can assemble the entire dish, including the streusel, the night before. Cover and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
  • This recipe is excellent for brunch ideas for a crowd.

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