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Paula Deen Overnight French Toast Casserole: Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole

A close-up of a moist slice of Paula Deen Overnight French Toast Casserole drizzled with syrup on a white plate.
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Prepare this rich, sweet French toast casserole the night before for an easy morning bake. This recipe delivers Paula Deen comfort food flavor for your next brunch or holiday breakfast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (12-14 slices) thick-cut bread, such as challah or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the bread, if using.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. This is your custard mixture.
  4. Pour the custard mixture slowly and evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid.
  5. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
  6. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Remove the plastic wrap.
  7. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar together until combined. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the top of the soaked bread.
  8. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and the center is set. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve warm with maple syrup.

Notes

  • Use slightly stale bread for the best texture; it absorbs the custard better without becoming mushy.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute half of the whole milk with half-and-half.
  • If the top browns too quickly during baking, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://miameal.com/paula-deen-overnight-french-toast-casserole/