Deliciously Simple Breakfast Treat

This overnight French toast casserole is unbelievably scrumptious! Perfect for busy mornings, prepare it the night before and wake up to a delightful baked breakfast. Each bite is filled with fluffy bread soaked in a sweet and creamy custard mixture. Top it off with fresh fruit or a drizzle of maple syrup, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing start to your day. This recipe is incredibly versatile and can even be made with your favorite type of bread. It’s a fantastic way to ease into your weekend brunch or to impress guests at your next gathering.

⏱️ Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

📝 Ingredients List

1 loaf of day-old bread (French or sourdough), cut into cubes
4 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup beef bacon, cooked and crumbled (or substitute with turkey bacon)
Optional toppings: fresh berries, whipped cream, maple syrup

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking dish
Measuring cups & spoons
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

Prepare the Bread: Cut the day-old bread into cubes and place them in a large baking dish. 😊
Make the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Combine: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes. Gently stir to coat all the pieces. Set aside.
Add Bacon: Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled beef bacon evenly over the top of the bread mixture.
Chill Overnight: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the cover from the baking dish and bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. 🕒
Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with fresh berries or drizzle with maple syrup as desired. 😋

💡 Pro Tips Section

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Substitutions: Feel free to use whole-grain bread for a healthier option or add in your favorite fruits like apples or bananas for extra flavor.
Meal Prep: Make the casserole in advance and refrigerate overnight. This makes it perfect for special occasions or lazy weekends!
Serving Ideas: Serve with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced breakfast. Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

📊 Nutrition Table

| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|————–|———-|———|——-|—–|——-|——-|
| 1 plate | 420 | 18g | 35g | 22g | 4g | 6g |

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

FAQ

Q: Can I use any type of bread for this recipe?
A: Yes! Day-old French, sourdough, or even whole-grain bread works great.

Q: How do I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free bread for a delicious gluten-free version of the casserole.

Q: Can I prepare this casserole without bacon?
A: Absolutely! You can omit the bacon or use a meat alternative or vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat in the microwave or bake in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.