If you love waking up to a breakfast that feels both indulgent and comforting, you are going to adore this Overnight French Toast Casserole with Cream Cheese, Fruit, and Nut Topping Recipe. This dish is a delightful assembly of fluffy brioche bread soaked in a rich custard, layered with luscious whipped cream cheese, and studded with vibrant fruit and crunchy nuts. It’s the perfect sweet, creamy, and textured breakfast treat that you prepare the night before, so all you have to do is pop it in the oven the next morning. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a cozy brunch option, this casserole will quickly become one of your go-to favorite recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this casserole shine. Each simple item brings something special to the table, from the soft and buttery brioche to the sweet and tangy cream cheese layer, rich custard base, and that irresistible crunchy topping.
- Brioche bread: Use a 17.6-ounce loaf of brioche for a soft, rich texture that soaks up all the custard beautifully.
- Whipped cream cheese (8 ounces): This adds a creamy tang and luxurious mouthfeel throughout the layers.
- Powdered sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the cream cheese without grittiness, keeping it silky smooth.
- Vanilla bean paste (1 tablespoon): Gives that deep, fragrant vanilla flavor that brings warmth and depth to the custard and cream cheese mixture.
- Fresh fruit (1 cup): Adds a pop of freshness and natural sweetness – berries or diced stone fruits work beautifully.
- Jam (1 cup): An alternative to fresh fruit for a more concentrated burst of flavor.
- Chopped nuts (1 cup): Provides satisfying crunch that contrasts with the soft bread and creamy layers.
- Chocolate chips (½ cup): Optional but delicious for a hint of melty chocolate surprise.
- Eggs (8 large): The backbone of the custard, giving it structure and richness.
- Half & half (2 cups): Or a mix of milk and cream to make the custard silky and creamy without being too heavy.
- Light brown sugar (â…” cup and â…“ cup): Adds warmth and a slight caramel note both in the custard and topping.
- Pure maple syrup (¼ cup): Brings natural sweetness and that classic breakfast flavor.
- Ground cinnamon (½ teaspoon and ½ teaspoon): Adds warming spice to complement the sweetness perfectly.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances all the flavors and enhances the sweetness.
- Salted butter (6 tablespoons, cold and cubed): Essential to creating the crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth topping.
- All-purpose flour (â…“ cup): Combines with sugar and butter to form the golden, crisp crumble topping.
How to Make Overnight French Toast Casserole with Cream Cheese, Fruit, and Nut Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Bread
Start by spraying a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick when it bakes. Next, cube your brioche loaf into approximately 1-inch pieces. If you have pre-sliced brioche, like I do, just cut each slice into smaller cubes – about a dozen per slice works perfectly. This uniform size means every bite will soak up the custard evenly and bake through beautifully.
Step 2: Layer the Bread and Cream Cheese Mixture
Layer half of your bread cubes evenly in the pan. In a separate bowl, mix the whipped cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla bean paste until you have a smooth, spreadable mixture. Dollop half of this cream cheese over the bread layer using something like a small cookie scoop or spoon. Then add the remaining bread and finish by dolloping the rest of the cream cheese on top. This layering creates wonderful pockets of creamy surprise throughout your casserole.
Step 3: Add Your Fruit, Jam, Nuts, and Chocolate Chips
Here’s where you get to personalize your casserole! Choose to add fresh fruit or jam — I don’t recommend both to keep flavors bright and balanced. Distribute half of your chosen fruit or jam and half of your chopped nuts and chocolate chips over each cream cheese layer. This layering technique ensures bursts of flavor in every forkful. The nuts bring a great crunch, while the chocolate chips melt into little sweet spots.
Step 4: Make the Custard and Soak the Bread
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs until frothy. Add the half & half, light brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla bean paste, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk well to combine. Pour this rich custard mixture evenly over the layered bread in your pan. It’s so satisfying to see the bread soak up all this creamy goodness — cover your dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight. This slow soak lets the flavors meld and the bread soften perfectly.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping and Bake
When it’s time to bake, preheat the oven to 350℉. Gently press the casserole with the foil to compact the layers and make sure it bakes evenly, then remove the foil. For the topping, combine cubed cold butter, light brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a bowl. Use your fingers to pinch and rub the mixture together until it forms crumbly clumps. Sprinkle this topping generously over the casserole and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Less time means a softer texture, more time means a firmer set.
How to Serve Overnight French Toast Casserole with Cream Cheese, Fruit, and Nut Topping Recipe
Garnishes
This casserole is naturally lovely on its own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty finishing touch. For an extra splash of elegance, top with fresh berries or sliced fruit alongside a drizzle of pure maple syrup. If you want to take it up a notch, a dollop of whipped cream or a swirl of Greek yogurt pairs beautifully with the richness and crunch.
Side Dishes
Since the casserole is quite rich and filling, lighter sides work best. Consider serving it with a bright green salad tossed in a citrus vinaigrette or some simple roasted vegetables if you’re leaning into brunch territory. For those who crave protein, crispy bacon or breakfast sausage rounds out the meal perfectly without overpowering the delicate flavors of the casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
To make your brunch look extra special, serve the casserole in pretty individual ramekins or muffin tins for single-sized portions. You can even layer extra fruit or nuts on top before baking each serving to show off the beautiful ingredients. If you plan a weekend brunch spread, set up a toppings bar with fresh fruit, nut butters, and syrups so guests can customize their slices with all their favorites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Overnight French Toast Casserole with Cream Cheese, Fruit, and Nut Topping Recipe, you’ll probably have some leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole reheats wonderfully, making it a convenient breakfast or snack for busy mornings.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later or prep ahead, this casserole freezes well. Freeze in individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil or in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place your portion on a baking sheet and warm in a 350℉ oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp on top again. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave it for 1 to 2 minutes, but baking brings back that lovely crunch the best.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While brioche is ideal for its buttery texture, challah or even thick-cut white bread can work. Just avoid dense or whole grain breads that won’t soak up the custard as well.
Can I prepare this casserole without nuts?
Yes, the nuts are completely optional. If you have allergies or don’t like nuts, simply omit them or replace with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch.
Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the half & half with a creamy non-dairy milk like coconut or almond milk, and use dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I add more fruit than the recipe calls for?
You can certainly increase the fruit amount if you like it extra fruity. Just keep in mind that too much liquid from the fruit might change the texture slightly, so make sure to drain very juicy fruits before adding.
How far ahead can I assemble this casserole?
This recipe is perfect for prepping the night before but you can also assemble and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered tightly to prevent drying out.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about waking up to a dish like this Overnight French Toast Casserole with Cream Cheese, Fruit, and Nut Topping Recipe. It’s convenience meets comfort food in the most delightful way. Whether you’re treating your family on the weekend or hosting a holiday brunch, this recipe will fill your kitchen with warm aromas and satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. Give it a try and watch it become an instant favorite worthy of repeating again and again!
Print
Overnight French Toast Casserole with Cream Cheese, Fruit, and Nut Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes plus overnight soaking
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Overnight French Toast Casserole is a delightful make-ahead breakfast or brunch dish featuring layers of brioche bread, whipped cream cheese, and optional fresh fruit, jam, nuts, or chocolate chips. Soaked overnight in a rich custard mixture flavored with maple syrup, vanilla, and cinnamon, then baked to perfection with a buttery brown sugar crumb topping, this casserole offers a balance of creamy, sweet, and spiced flavors. Easy to prepare the night before, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leisurely mornings.
Ingredients
Bread and Cream Cheese Layer
- 1 (17.6-ounce) loaf brioche bread (500g, pre-sliced or cubed)
- 8 ounces whipped cream cheese (226g)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (30g)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste (or extract)
- 1 cup fresh fruit (optional)
- 1 cup jam (optional)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
Custard Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups half & half (480mL) or 1 cup whole milk + 1 cup heavy cream
- â…” cup light brown sugar (133g, packed)
- ¼ cup 100% pure maple syrup (60mL)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste (or extract)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Topping
- 6 tablespoons salted butter (84g, cold and cubed)
- â…“ cup light brown sugar (67g, packed)
- â…“ cup all-purpose flour (44g, spooned and leveled)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the baking pan: Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray and set aside to ensure the casserole won’t stick after baking.
- Cube the bread: Cut the brioche loaf into 1-inch cubes. If pre-sliced, cut each slice into 12 pieces for even layering.
- Layer half the bread: Spread half of the cubed brioche evenly in the prepared baking pan as the base layer.
- Make the cream cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, combine whipped cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla bean paste until smooth and uniform.
- Add cream cheese and remaining bread: Dollop half of the cream cheese mixture randomly over the bread in the pan, then top with the remaining bread cubes. Follow with dolloping the rest of the cream cheese mixture on top.
- Add optional mix-ins: If using fresh fruit, jam, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips, divide them in half and layer them along with the cream cheese and bread layers. For best results, add fruit or jam, not both. Nuts and chocolate chips can be combined with either or omitted.
- Prepare custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, half & half (or milk and cream mix), brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla bean paste, ground cinnamon, and salt until fully blended.
- Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and cream cheese in the pan. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
- Preheat oven and press casserole: When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove pan from refrigerator and gently press down on casserole with the foil to compact the bread for even baking, then discard the foil.
- Make the crumb topping: Cube the cold salted butter and combine with brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Using your fingers, rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture clumps together into a crumbly topping.
- Apply topping and bake: Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the French toast casserole. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes. Baking closer to 45 minutes yields a softer, custardy texture, while 55 minutes gives a firmer, less eggy consistency.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly. Serve warm dusted with powdered sugar and optionally topped with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Use brioche bread for its rich texture and flavor; challah or Texas toast are good alternatives.
- You can customize this casserole by mixing in fruit, jam, nuts, or chocolate chips according to your preferences. Avoid combining fresh fruit and jam to prevent overly soggy texture.
- Soaking the casserole overnight is essential for the bread to absorb the custard fully for a creamy interior.
- For an eggier texture, bake longer; for a softer casserole, bake on the shorter end of the time range.
- This recipe can be doubled or halved easily depending on serving size requirements.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven or microwave.
