Name: Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Overnight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 Servings
Ingredients: 2 cups Challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 large eggs; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional); 1/2 cup heavy cream; Maple syrup (optional)

As I stood in the kitchen, the aroma of cinnamon wafted through the air, transporting me back to a cozy childhood memory. My grandmother’s house was always a haven of warmth and comfort, filled with the scent of freshly baked bread and the sounds of sizzling bacon. But it was her cinnamon french toast casserole that remained etched in my memory forever. A sweet, indulgent treat that required minimal effort but delivered big on flavor and satisfaction. Little did I know, years later, I’d stumble upon a recipe that would reignite that same magic, albeit with a modern twist.

Since then, I’ve experimented with various overnight recipes, but this cinnamon french toast casserole has become a staple in my household. Unlike other desserts that require a midnight baking session, this beauty is prepared in under 15 minutes and serves as a perfect breakfast offering for a crowd. If you’re not a morning person or simply need a hassle-free option, this Related Recipe, our Strawberry Oatmeal Casserole, is a delicious alternative you might enjoy as well.

Quick Shopping List

1 (12 oz) loaf Challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

2 large eggs

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it leverages the science of slow-cooked goodness, ingeniously using an overnight refrigerator redistribution method to yield crispy edges and a fluffy interior.
It’s ridiculously easy: prep your ingredients in under 15 minutes, and the next morning, you’ll have a delicious breakfast on hand with minimal effort.
The combination of warm spices, ripe fruit, and rich melted butter will make anyone a French toast aficionado!

Key Ingredients

When it comes to cinnamon french toast casserole, there are a few key ingredients that set it apart from other overnight breakfast recipes. For starters, making your own Challah or brioche bread from scratch brings an unparalleled level of texture and flavor to the dish. Keep an eye out for brands like Marie’s, Arnold’s, or Pepperidge Farm for consistent quality.

The sugar we’re using is not your average granulated sugar – we opted for a medium to fine powder to provide the right mix of sweetness and chew. Look for natural brands like C&H, or consider substituting with a more artisanal sugar option.

Cinnamon french toast casserole overnight

Recipe Courtesy of Our Kitchen

Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Overnight

★★★★★ (55 Reviews)

Level:
Easy

Prep:
15 min

Cook:
25 min

Yield:
4 Servings

Ingredients

2 cups Challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

2 large eggs

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

1/2 cup heavy cream

Maple syrup (optional)

Directions

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.

Add the bread, pecans (if using), and heavy cream to the egg mixture and stir until combined.

Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch dish and cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Refrigerate overnight (8-10 hours).

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Uncover the dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Storage & Reheating

To keep your cinnamon french toast casserole fresh, store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until warm and golden brown.