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Overnight French Toast Casserole ready for baking in a glass dish.

Decadent Berry & Almond Overnight French Toast Casserole

This impressive overnight French toast casserole is filled with challah bread, mixed berries, and almonds, all soaked in a rich, custardy mixture. Prepare it the night before for an easy and delicious breakfast or brunch.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 7 hours 50 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • large bowl
  • whisk
  • small bowl
  • pastry blender (optional)

Ingredients
  

French Toast Casserole

  • 1 loaf challah bread about 12-16 oz, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup mixed berries fresh or frozen, such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted (for greasing and optional streusel)

Optional Streusel Topping

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter cut into small pieces

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with melted butter, then scatter the challah bread cubes evenly into the dish.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
  • Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ensuring it's thoroughly saturated; gently press the bread to help it absorb the liquid, then scatter mixed berries on top.
  • For the optional streusel, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl, then cut in cold butter until coarse crumbs form, and sprinkle over the berries.
  • Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight up to 24 hours.

Baking

  • The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let the casserole sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes while the oven heats.
  • Uncover the casserole, sprinkle with sliced almonds, and bake for 45-55 minutes until puffed, golden brown, and set in the center.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, and optionally drizzle with maple syrup, dust with powdered sugar, or add whipped cream and fresh berries.

Notes

For best results, allow the casserole to soak overnight. You can substitute any brioche or other dense white bread for challah. Adjust sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sugar. Serve warm with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream.