Overnight Cinnamon French Toast

Easy French toast recipes

When I want a breakfast for a special occasion I always think of French toast. It's like the perfect combination of sweet decadence and warm comfort, almost like dessert for breakfast! Plus it is incredibly versatile and can be customized so many ways.

It's easy to change it up with different fruits that fit the season like Overnight Blueberry French Toast or Crockpot Apple Cinnamon French Toast, or just go for pure decadence with this easy Cinnamon Roll French Toast. It's a quick breakfast that is perfect for every day or special occasions.

Cinnamon French toast casserole

Whether it's Valentine's Day or Mother's Day, there is no better way to say I love you than to whip up a special breakfast for your loved one. And what's better than French toast, topped with crumbly streusel, and drenched in pure maple syrup? Ummm, can't think of anything.

I know what you're thinking, I'll never pull that off. No worries, this decadent baked cinnamon French toast breakfast is as easy as can be. Anyone can make it!

It has simple ingredients, steps that are easy to follow, and clean-up is a breeze. Plus it's made the night before so all you have to do is pop it in the oven the next morning and enjoy spending the time with your loved ones. I'm sure you will get a little lovin' back after they taste it!

Ingredients

This overnight cinnamon French toast bake is made with regular pantry ingredients that come together for irresistible flavor and texture. Check it out!

For the French Toast:

Cinnamon swirl bread: Adds awesome built-in cinnamon flavor and sweetness. I used a croissant style cinnamon bread that turned out delicious!

Eggs: These create the custard base, giving the dish its rich, creamy texture.

Milk: Helps soak the bread and balance the custard.

Vanilla extract: A warm, sweet hint of vanilla that enhances all the flavors.

Brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the custard.

Grand Marnier (optional): A splash of citrusy liqueur gives this French toast extra decadent flavor.

For the streusel topping:

Flour: Forms the base of the crumbly topping.

Brown sugar: Sweetens the streusel with a rich, molasses-like taste.

Cold butter: Creates that perfectly crumbly, buttery topping.

Cinnamon and nutmeg: These warm spices enhance the cinnamon flavor in the bread.

Salt: Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness.

Simple steps to make overnight cinnamon French toast

Making this dish is super easy. Here's how you bring it all together:

1. Cut the bread into cubes and place in a greased 7x10-inch or 8-½x11-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and brown sugar.
3. Pour egg mixture over the bread.
4. Press slices into the liquid. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. To make the crumbs, Combine flour, brown sugar, salt and spices. Add butter.
6. Cut into dry ingredients until the mixture resembles small peas. Cover and place in the refrigerator until ready to assemble for baking.

7. When ready to bake (any time between 4 hours and overnight) remove from refrigerator. You will see the bread has absorbed all the liquid.
8. Scatter crumb mixture on top.
9. Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes.
10. Let cool slightly then sprinkle with powdered sugar.

What to serve with it

This sweet, cinnamony French toast is like a creamy custard with a crunchy top. It's perfect for two or a crowd. I like to serve mine with sides of bacon or sausage and fruit, and that absolutely necessary big mug of coffee.

Recipe tips for success

Here are a few tips to make sure your French toast casserole turns out perfect every time:

• Use day-old bread for the best texture - fresh bread can become too soggy.
• Make sure to press the bread cubes into the custard so they soak up all the liquid.
• You can prep the casserole in the morning and bake it right away if you're short on time. Just skip the overnight step!

Recipe variations to make it your own

• Top it with your favorite fruit. Try blueberries, strawberries, peaches, or even bananas.
• Make it even more decadent by spreading bread with cream cheese before topping it with crumbs.
• Instead of cinnamon bread, use a challah or brioche. 
• Along with the extract add a little orange or lemon zest to the egg mixture.
• Add chopped apples to the bread mixture before soaking. They'll bake into sweet, tender bites.
• Stir in some chopped pecans for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Mix in raisins or use cinnamon raisin bread for a fun twist.

How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat Leftovers

To store leftovers, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to four days.

If you want to freeze it, wrap individual servings in foil and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will stay fresh for up to three months.

To reheat, pop a serving in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through. The streusel topping will crisp up nicely in the oven!