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Easy Overnight Brioche French Toast

Easy Overnight Brioche French Toast

Easy Overnight Brioche French Toast is a comforting and effortless breakfast dish that combines rich, buttery brioche bread with a luscious custard soak. Perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekends, this recipe offers a hands-off approach to a classic brunch favorite, delivering tender, flavorful, golden-baked custardy bread with crisp edges. Customize with toppings or variations to suit your taste and enjoy a delicious start to your day.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 68 thick slices brioche bread (preferably day-old)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk or cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons sugar or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Butter for greasing (optional, plus extra for brushing on top)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, vanilla extract, sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg until smooth and well combined. This custard base will soak into the brioche overnight, providing deep flavor and moisture.
  2. Arrange the Brioche: Lightly butter a baking dish, then layer the thick slices of brioche evenly inside. Slightly overlap slices to ensure all pieces soak up the custard fully.
  3. Pour and Soak: Slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread, gently pressing down so all slices absorb the custard. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight for at least 6 hours or up to 24 hours.
  4. Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, until the top is golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
  5. Serve Warm: Let the French toast cool slightly before cutting into squares. Garnish as desired with berries, powdered sugar, maple syrup, or nuts for an irresistible meal.

Notes

  • Use day-old brioche to absorb custard better without becoming mushy.
  • Do not skip the overnight soaking to allow flavors to meld and ensure a custardy center.
  • Use room temperature eggs and milk for a smoother custard blend.
  • Cover the dish tightly during soaking to prevent fridge odors from affecting flavor.
  • Sprinkle sugar or cinnamon sugar on top before baking for a slight crunchy crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight french toast, brioche french toast, easy breakfast, overnight custard bake, brunch recipe, make ahead french toast