Overnight Brioche French Toast
Overnight Brioche French Toast is a soft, custardy breakfast treat that’s perfect for those mornings when you want something special without the early morning hassle. Thick slices of rich brioche…
Tip: save now, cook later.Overnight Brioche French Toast is a soft, custardy breakfast treat that’s perfect for those mornings when you want something special without the early morning hassle. Thick slices of rich brioche bread soak up a blend of eggs, milk, and cinnamon overnight, turning into golden, melt-in-your-mouth French toast that’s sweet, fluffy, and comforting.
I love making this the night before because it takes all the fuss out of morning cooking. I just pop it in the oven while I’m getting ready, and by the time I’m done, breakfast is ready to enjoy. It’s a great way to impress family or guests without feeling rushed, and the smell of warm cinnamon and baked custard fills the whole house—it’s like a slow morning hug.
One of my favorite ways to serve this is with a drizzle of maple syrup, fresh berries, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Sometimes I even add a dollop of whipped cream or a handful of chopped nuts for extra texture. It’s a wonderful weekend breakfast or holiday brunch dish that brings everyone to the table smiling and ready to dig in.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brioche Bread: This rich, buttery bread is key for that soft, fluffy texture. If you can’t find brioche, challah or thick-cut white bread works well too. Just avoid super dense breads, so it soaks up the custard nicely.
Eggs & Dairy: Eggs give structure, while milk and cream add creaminess. For a lighter version, use all milk or swap cream for half-and-half. If dairy-free, try almond or oat milk, but the texture will be a bit different.
Spices: Cinnamon is a must for warm, cozy flavor. Nutmeg is optional but adds a subtle spicy note. Feel free to adjust these or add a pinch of cardamom for an extra twist.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla enhances the custard’s sweetness and aroma. If you don’t have vanilla, you can use a tiny bit of almond extract or skip it altogether.
How Do You Get the Perfect Soak Without Soggy French Toast?
The soaking step is what makes this French toast custardy and tender inside. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Cut the bread thick and arrange evenly so each piece absorbs the custard well.
- Press down gently on the bread after pouring in the custard to help it soak in. Don’t just pour and walk away!
- Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours. This gives time for the liquid to fully sink in without making the bread soggy.
- When baking, don’t skip the butter in the dish to help create a golden crust while baking thoroughly inside.
Following these tips ensures you end up with tender, custardy bread inside and a beautifully browned top. It’s worth the wait!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – Perfect size for layering bread and custard evenly.
- Large mixing bowl – Big enough to whisk together all the custard ingredients without spills.
- Whisk – Helps blend eggs and milk smoothly for a creamy custard.
- Plastic wrap or foil – To cover and keep the dish airtight while soaking overnight.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate measurement of milk, cream, spices, and sugar.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add fresh berries or sliced apples between bread layers for fruity bursts that balance the rich custard.
- Stir in a teaspoon of orange zest into the egg mixture for a bright, citrus twist that lifts the flavor.
- Mix in chocolate chips or sprinkle on top before baking to add melty, gooey sweetness.
- Replace cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice in fall for a cozy, seasonal touch.
Overnight Brioche French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Bread and Custard:
- 1 loaf brioche bread, cut into thick slices or cubes (about 8 cups)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For Baking and Serving:
- Butter, for greasing the baking dish
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Fresh strawberries or berries, for garnish (optional)
- Whipped cream or a dollop of crème fraîche (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe needs about 15 minutes to prepare the custard and arrange the bread, then it needs to soak overnight (at least 6 hours) in the fridge. Baking takes about 45-55 minutes. Plan ahead so you can enjoy a delicious, hands-off breakfast.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. This prevents the French toast from sticking and helps create a nice golden crust.
2. Arrange the Brioche:
Place your thick slices or cubes of brioche evenly in the greased dish. Make sure to fill the dish uniformly so every piece soaks the custard mixture equally.
3. Mix the Custard:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined.
4. Soak the Bread:
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the brioche pieces. Press lightly on the bread to help it absorb the custard fully. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil, then place it in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 6 hours.
5. Bake the French Toast:
In the morning, remove the cover and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the soaked brioche for 45 to 55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the custard is set in the center.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Allow the French toast to cool for a few minutes. Then dust the top with powdered sugar. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream or crème fraîche, and a sprig of fresh mint for a beautiful, tasty finish.
Can I Use Frozen Brioche for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just thaw the brioche completely before cutting and soaking it in the custard mixture. Make sure it’s not soggy, so it soaks up the custard evenly without becoming mushy.
How Long Can I Refrigerate the Soaked French Toast Before Baking?
It’s best to soak the bread overnight or for at least 6 hours, but you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Beyond that, the texture may become too soft and soggy.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with unsweetened almond, oat, or coconut milk. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious and custardy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warm, adding a splash of milk if it’s too dry.