Overnight French Toast

Name: Overnight French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 6 slices of bread (preferably brioche or challah); 4 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; Pinch of salt; Fresh fruits for topping (e.g., bananas, blueberries); Maple syrup for serving

Start your day off right with this easy and delightful overnight french toast recipe. Perfect for busy mornings, this dish requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Infused with cinnamon and topped with fresh fruits, it’s a breakfast that everyone will love. Prepare it the night before and wake up to a warm, comforting meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

6 slices of bread (preferably brioche or challah)
4 large eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup sugar
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Fresh fruits for topping (e.g., bananas, blueberries)
Maple syrup for serving

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 7g protein. This is based on one slice of the french toast.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Arrange bread slices in the dish, overlapping them slightly.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring all slices are soaked.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) the next morning.
Bake the french toast for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Top with fresh fruits and a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired.
Serve warm with maple syrup on the side.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option. Non-dairy milk can replace regular milk, and you can use a sugar substitute if desired. Feel free to get creative with spices, adding nutmeg or cardamom for extra flavor.

Serving and Pairings

This overnight french toast pairs beautifully with crispy bacon or sausage links, as well as a side of fresh fruit salad. A dollop of whipped cream or yogurt on top adds a delightful creaminess.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a toaster or an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; just reheat directly from the freezer.

Cooking Mistakes

Not soaking the bread long enough can lead to dry toast.
Using stale bread is fine, but ensure it’s not too hard.
Skipping the overnight refrigeration will affect the texture.
Overbaking can dry out the toast; keep an eye on it.
Forgetting to grease the dish can result in sticking.

Helpful Tips

Use thick slices of bread for a more custardy texture.
Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
Experiment with different spices to customize the flavor.
Let the dish sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking for even cooking.

FAQs

Can I make overnight french toast with regular sandwich bread?

Yes, while brioche or challah is preferred for texture, regular sandwich bread can also be used. Just ensure it’s thick enough to soak up the custard.

How long can I store leftover overnight french toast?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster for the best texture.

Can I freeze overnight french toast?

Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap slices individually and store in an airtight container for up to a month. Reheat from frozen.

What fruits work best for topping?

Fresh berries, bananas, or even sliced peaches work wonderfully on top of overnight french toast, adding flavor and color.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute the eggs with a flaxseed mixture and use non-dairy milk and vegan butter. Adjust the sugar to taste.

Conclusion

Overnight french toast is not only a convenient meal but also a delicious way to start your day. With minimal prep time and the ability to customize ingredients, it’s perfect for any breakfast occasion. Enjoy this delightful dish with your favorite toppings for a truly satisfying breakfast experience.