Print

Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe with Best Berry Compote

overnight french toast casserole - featured image
Print Recipe

A warm, comforting French toast casserole soaked overnight in a custard mixture and topped with a fresh, tangy berry compote. Perfect for busy mornings or gatherings, this recipe is easy to prep ahead and delicious to serve.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf day-old brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing)
  • For the Berry Compote:
  • 2 cups (300 g) mixed berries (fresh or frozen; blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

  1. Cut brioche or challah bread into 1-inch cubes. Spread evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or half-and-half, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until combined and frothy.
  3. Pour custard evenly over bread cubes. Press gently to help bread soak. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight (at least 6 hours).
  4. About 30 minutes before baking, combine mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until berries soften and release juices (5-7 minutes).
  5. Stir cornstarch slurry into simmering berries. Cook 1-2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat, stir in lemon zest if using, and set aside to cool slightly.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove casserole from fridge and plastic wrap. Drizzle melted butter evenly over top.
  7. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until top is golden brown and a knife inserted in center comes out clean.
  8. Let casserole rest 5-10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with berry compote on top or on the side.

Notes

Use day-old bread for best soaking results; toast fresh bread lightly if needed. Cover casserole loosely with foil if top browns too fast. The casserole may puff up during baking but will settle as it cools. Berry compote can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. For dairy-free or gluten-free versions, swap milk, butter, and bread accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight French toast casserole, berry compote, easy breakfast casserole, make-ahead breakfast, brunch recipe, French toast bake

Find it online: https://avabake.com/easy-overnight-french-toast-casserole-recipe-with-best-berry-compote/