Overnight French Toast
Wake up to the delightful aroma of Overnight French Toast, a dish that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon, bread, and sweet toppings. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for families and gatherings, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast without the morning rush. Prepare it the night before, and let it soak up all the flavors for a truly satisfying start to your day.
Ingredients
– 8 slices of thick bread (like challah or brioche)
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– A pinch of salt
– Fresh fruit for topping (bananas, blueberries, etc.)
– Maple syrup for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30-35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (based on 1 slice) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 6g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 1g
This is for one slice of Overnight French Toast.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Arrange the slices of bread in the dish, overlapping them slightly.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring each slice is soaked.
5. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (at least 6 hours).
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) the next morning.
7. Remove the plastic wrap and sprinkle additional cinnamon on top if desired.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
10. Top with fresh fruit and maple syrup before enjoying!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option. Use almond milk instead of cow’s milk for a dairy-free version. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or use honey instead of sugar.
Serving and Pairings
Overnight French Toast pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. It’s delicious served alongside crispy bacon or sausage for a heartier breakfast.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; reheat directly from frozen.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not soaking the bread long enough can lead to dryness.
- Using stale bread can affect texture; fresh bread is best.
- Overbaking can cause the dish to become tough.
- Skipping the overnight soak diminishes flavor and moisture.
- Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven cooking.
Helpful Tips
- Use thicker slices of bread for better texture.
- Add chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
- Experiment with different toppings like nuts or whipped cream.
- For a richer flavor, use brioche or challah bread.
FAQs
Can I make Overnight French Toast ahead of time?
Yes, that’s the beauty of this recipe! Prepare it the night before and let it soak in the refrigerator, then bake it in the morning.
What type of bread is best for Overnight French Toast?
Thick, sturdy breads like challah, brioche, or Texas toast work best as they absorb the custard without falling apart.
Can I freeze Overnight French Toast?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked dish for up to 2 months. Just reheat it straight from the freezer.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The French Toast is done when it’s puffed up and golden brown on top. A knife inserted should come out clean.
Can I add additional flavors?
Definitely! Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or even a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.
Conclusion
Overnight French Toast is a convenient and delicious breakfast option that makes mornings easier. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this delightful dish with your favorite toppings and savor the moments together!
Overnight French Toast
Ingredients
- 8 slices of thick bread
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
- Fresh fruit for topping
- Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Arrange the slices of bread in the dish, overlapping them slightly.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring each slice is soaked.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) the next morning.
- Remove the plastic wrap and sprinkle additional cinnamon on top if desired.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Top with fresh fruit and maple syrup before enjoying!
