Description
This Overnight French Toast Casserole is a decadent make-ahead breakfast perfect for brunch or special occasions. Featuring cubes of brioche soaked in a rich custard of eggs, milk, maple syrup, and warm spices, then baked to golden perfection. Topped with toasted pecans for crunch and served with a luscious maple cinnamon whipped cream, this casserole blends comforting flavors with a touch of elegance.
Ingredients
Scale
French Toast Casserole
- 1 loaf (400 grams) brioche bread, 1-2 days old, cut into small cubes
- 3/4 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
- 6 eggs
- 1¾ cup 2% milk
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
Maple Cinnamon Whipped Cream
- 1½ cups 33% whipping cream
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/3 cup confectioners’ sugar (start with 3 tbsp and add up to 2 tbsp more if desired)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the bread and pecans: Cube the brioche bread into small pieces and toast the pecans roughly chopped until fragrant. Set both aside.
- Make the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, 2% milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, almond extract, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble the casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer the cubed brioche bread evenly. Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, making sure all pieces are soaked. Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the top.
- Refrigerate overnight: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the custard fully for a tender, flavorful French toast bake.
- Bake the casserole: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set in the center.
- Prepare the maple cinnamon whipped cream: While the casserole bakes, whip the 33% whipping cream in a chilled bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add maple syrup, confectioners’ sugar, and cinnamon, then continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly after baking. Serve warm topped generously with the maple cinnamon whipped cream for a luscious, sweet finish.
Notes
- Using brioche bread, preferably a day or two old, helps it absorb the custard better without becoming too soggy.
- Adjust the sweetness in the whipped cream by adding the confectioners’ sugar gradually to taste.
- For added texture, you can sprinkle extra pecans or even a streusel topping before baking.
- This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning, making it perfect for busy mornings or brunch parties.
- Storage: Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in a toaster oven or microwave.
Keywords: overnight french toast casserole, baked french toast, brunch casserole, maple pecan french toast, holiday breakfast casserole