Paula Deen Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe
This Paula Deen Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe is rich, soft and full of flavor. It is perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread cut into cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup butter softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
Prepare the bread
- Cut French bread into cubes. Spread them evenly in a greased baking dish. Use slightly stale bread for better texture.
Make the custard mixture
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Pour over bread
- Pour the custard evenly over bread cubes. Press gently so all pieces soak up the mixture properly.
Cover and refrigerate
- Cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap. Place in fridge overnight. This helps bread absorb all flavors deeply.
Prepare the topping
- In a bowl, mix butter, brown sugar, flour and cinnamon. Blend until crumbly texture forms.
Add topping before baking
- Remove casserole from fridge. Sprinkle topping evenly over soaked bread mixture for a sweet crunchy layer.
Bake the casserole
- Preheat oven to 180°C. Bake for 45 minutes until top is golden brown and center is set.
Cool and serve
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Notes
- Use brioche or challah bread for richer taste.
- Add chopped nuts for crunch.
- Mix in raisins or berries for sweetness.
- Use maple syrup for serving.
- Do not skip overnight soaking step.
- Cover with foil if top browns too quickly.
- Add cream cheese cubes for creamy pockets.