Description

This Overnight Vanilla Bean French Toast Casserole is a delightful blend of brioche, eggs, and vanilla, making it an ideal breakfast for gathering with family or friends. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s best served fresh with berries and maple syrup.

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

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Instructions

Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish well and layer in the bread cubes, spreading them evenly without packing.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth then add the heavy cream, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, cardamom (if using), and salt, whisking until combined.
Pour the custard mixture over the bread and use a spatula to press the bread down gently to absorb the liquid. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours.
Mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl. Incorporate the cold butter with your fingers until clumps form. Cover and refrigerate this mixture too.
Preheat the oven to 350°F the next morning and take the casserole out of the fridge.
Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the soaked bread and bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, until the top is golden and crisp.
Allow to rest for 10 minutes once out of the oven before serving.
Serve warm with powdered sugar, berries, and a drizzle of warm maple syrup or honey, if preferred.

Notes

For best results, allow the casserole to soak overnight to absorb the flavors fully.
Feel free to substitute brioche with challah or even a hearty whole grain bread for a different flavor.
This dish is perfect for brunch gatherings or as a comforting family breakfast.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 9g
Cholesterol: 300mg