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Easy No-Mixer Overnight Brioche French Toast Casserole

overnight brioche french toast casserole - featured image

A simple, no-mixer French toast casserole made with brioche bread soaked overnight in a rich custard, perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf brioche bread (about 12 ounces / 340 grams), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk (480 ml)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 grams)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • Optional toppings: maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, toasted nuts

Instructions

  1. Grease your baking dish with melted butter to prevent sticking and add flavor. (5 minutes)
  2. Cube the brioche loaf into roughly 1-inch chunks. (5 minutes)
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 6 eggs, 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until combined but not overmixed. (5-7 minutes)
  4. Add the brioche cubes to the custard and gently fold to coat all pieces. Press lightly to soak but avoid smashing. (3 minutes)
  5. Pour the soaked bread mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading evenly and pushing any dry pieces under the surface. (2 minutes)
  6. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to soak. (At least 8 hours)
  7. Preheat the oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). (10 minutes)
  8. Bake the casserole uncovered for 45-55 minutes until the top is golden brown and custard is set but still soft inside. Cover loosely with foil if edges brown too quickly. (45-55 minutes)
  9. Test doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a bit of custard. (1 minute)
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to firm up slightly. Serve warm with optional toppings. (5-10 minutes)

Notes

Use day-old brioche or slightly stale bread for better custard absorption. Avoid overmixing custard to keep it silky. Press bread gently to soak without smashing. If edges brown too fast, cover loosely with foil. Rest casserole before serving for cleaner slices. Can freeze assembled casserole before baking; thaw overnight in fridge before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast casserole, brioche, overnight breakfast, no mixer, easy brunch, custardy, cinnamon, comfort food