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Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole with Mixed Berry Compote

easy overnight French toast casserole - featured image

A cozy and easy overnight French toast casserole soaked in a cinnamon-vanilla custard, baked to perfection and topped with a tangy mixed berry compote. Perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf day-old brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk (or 2% for lighter version)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for greasing the dish)
  • 2 cups frozen mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with melted butter.
  2. Cut day-old brioche or challah into roughly 1-inch cubes, keeping pieces uniform.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth and slightly frothy.
  4. Spread bread cubes evenly in the greased baking dish.
  5. Pour custard mixture over the bread, pressing down gently to soak all pieces.
  6. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight or at least 6 hours.
  7. Remove casserole from fridge 30 minutes before baking to take chill off.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until top is golden and custard is set but soft inside.
  9. While baking, combine frozen mixed berries, honey or maple syrup, and lemon juice in a small saucepan.
  10. Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until berries break down and mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
  11. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  12. Serve warm casserole slices topped with mixed berry compote.

Notes

Use day-old bread for best soaking and custardy texture. Let eggs and milk come to room temperature before mixing. Tent casserole with foil if top browns too fast. Compote can be made ahead and reheated. For dairy-free, substitute plant-based milk and vegan butter; for vegan, use flax eggs.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast casserole, overnight breakfast, mixed berry compote, easy brunch recipe, cinnamon vanilla custard