Name: Overnight Cinnamon Maple French Toast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 ¼ teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided; 16 slices 100% whole wheat bread (1 16-ounce loaf); 1 (12-ounce) can fat-free evaporated milk (for dairy-free option, substitute light coconut milk); 1 cup 2% milk or whole milk (for dairy-free option, substitute full-fat coconut milk); 6 large eggs; ¼ cup pure maple syrup; 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract; Zest of 1 small lemon or ½ orange; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; Pure maple syrup; Butter; Fresh berries; Greek yogurt; Powdered sugar; Peanut butter; Any other desired toppings

Jump to Recipe·4 from 13 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, flavorful breakfast that practically makes itself, then this Overnight Cinnamon Maple French Toast Casserole Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Picture fluffy whole wheat bread soaked in a luscious cinnamon-speckled custard, infused with the rich warmth of maple syrup, and baked to golden perfection. It’s like waking up to a hug from the inside, ready and waiting to delight your taste buds with minimal morning effort. Whether for a weekend brunch or a special occasion, this dish is a perfect blend of comforting familiar flavors and easy preparation that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a loaf of light brown whole wheat bread with a smooth, slightly shiny crust. Two slices are placed in front of the loaf, showing a soft and even crumb with small holes inside. The bread rests on a wooden board partially covered by white parchment paper on a white marbled surface. On the upper left side, there are two small white containers, one holding a light yellow butter spread and the other with honey and a wooden honey dipper inside. The scene is bright and clean with soft shadows. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step in crafting this heartwarming casserole. Each component plays a vital role, from adding creamy richness to providing that unmistakable cozy cinnamon aroma. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this magical dish to life:

3 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness for the custard and cinnamon topping.
1 ¼ teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided: Infuses the dish with warm, comforting spice throughout the custard and sprinkled on top.
16 slices 100% whole wheat bread (1 loaf, 16 ounces): Offers a hearty texture and wholesome flavor that soaks up the custard beautifully.
1 (12-ounce) can fat-free evaporated milk: Enhances creaminess without heaviness; for dairy-free, swap with light coconut milk.
1 cup 2% or whole milk: Adds richness and moisture; use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
6 large eggs: The binding magic behind the custard, creating that classic French toast texture.
¼ cup pure maple syrup: Brings deep, natural sweetness and that signature maple flavor.
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract: Injects a smooth, fragrant note that balances the spices and sweetness.
Zest of 1 small lemon or ½ orange: Adds a bright, citrusy lift to cut through the richness.
¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.

How to Make Overnight Cinnamon Maple French Toast Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Toast and Prep the Bread

Start by arranging your oven racks in the upper and lower thirds and preheating the oven to 350 degrees F. Lay out the whole wheat bread slices on two baking sheets and toast them just until they’re lightly dry on the surface but not browned—this takes about 8 to 10 minutes. This step is crucial because it prevents sogginess by allowing the bread to absorb the custard perfectly without falling apart. Once toasted, cut each slice diagonally while still warm. Let cool just a bit while you prep the custard.

Step 2: Mix the Custard

Whisk together your evaporated milk, regular milk, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla extract, lemon or orange zest, salt, and most of the cinnamon in a large bowl until completely combined. In a separate small bowl, mix the granulated sugar with the remaining cinnamon to make a fragrant topping. This custard mixture is what transforms simple bread into that heavenly French toast casserole, soaking each slice with flavor and tenderness.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Butter your 9×13-inch casserole dish generously to prevent sticking and add a touch of richness. Then, fan the toasted bread halves into the dish however you like—stacked, overlapping, or arranged neatly, it’s your masterpiece! Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing gently to ensure every piece is saturated. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar blend on top, then cover the casserole tightly with foil. Whether you let it sit for 15 minutes or refrigerate overnight, this rest time allows the custard to deeply penetrate the bread for maximum flavor and fluffy texture.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F and position a rack in the center. If refrigerated, allow the casserole to warm to room temperature before baking. Start covered, baking for 20 minutes to let the custard set, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes or until the dish is puffed, golden, and no custard seeps when lightly pressed. The aroma that fills your kitchen at this point is a delicious preview of the comforting meal to come. Let it rest a few minutes before slicing into squares for serving.

How to Serve Overnight Cinnamon Maple French Toast Casserole Recipe

The dish shows three slices of golden brown French toast stacked irregularly on a white plate. The top slice has a small bite missing from the edge. The toast is glossy from syrup drizzled over it, with light dusting of powdered sugar. Scattered around and on top are fresh blueberries and raspberries, adding deep blue and red colors. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a white cloth and a blue linen napkin underneath. There are cinnamon sticks and metal kitchen tongs placed near the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top your warm slices with a pat of butter that melts into all those nooks and crannies, a drizzle of pure maple syrup straight from the bottle for even more sweetness, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a delicate touch. Fresh berries bring a burst of refreshment and color, while a dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a tangy balance. Feel free to get creative—peanut butter, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of chopped chocolate all work wonders too!

Side Dishes

Pairing your casserole with fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon, or breakfast sausage links can elevate the meal and add protein balance. A bright green smoothie or a freshly brewed pot of coffee rounds out the table, making you feel like you’re dining at a charming bed and breakfast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a fancy brunch presentation, or layer it with seasonal fruit and a drizzle of cream to turn it into a decadent dessert. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking for added texture. For the holidays, add a handful of dried cranberries or chopped apples to the custard for a festive twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover casserole keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 4 days when tightly covered or stored in an airtight container. Reheat gently to preserve its moist, custardy texture and avoid drying it out.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully if you want to make it even further in advance. Freeze it unbaked in a foil casserole pan or airtight container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra cooking time as needed, and keep it covered at first to prevent over-browning.

Reheating

Rewarm single servings in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or gently heat the whole casserole in a 350-degree oven covered with foil to keep it moist. Add a few minutes uncovered if you want to refresh that golden crust.

FAQs

Can I use different types of bread?

Absolutely! While whole wheat bread offers hearty texture and nutrition, you can use brioche, challah, or even sourdough for varying flavors and textures. Just make sure your bread isn’t too dense or overly fresh, as slightly stale or toasted slices absorb the custard best.

Is this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets?

Yes! Swap the evaporated and regular milk with light or full-fat coconut milk for a lovely dairy-free version. The eggs and maple syrup provide plenty of richness, so it still turns out deliciously custardy and flavorful.

Can I make this recipe without maple syrup?

You can substitute the maple syrup with honey, agave nectar, or even brown sugar, but the iconic maple flavor is a big part of what makes this dish so special and cozy.

How long can I refrigerate the assembled casserole before baking?

You can refrigerate the casserole overnight for up to 12 hours. This resting time really enhances the flavor and texture by letting the custard soak deeply into the bread.

Can I add fruit or nuts inside the casserole?

Definitely! Adding sliced apples, berries, or chopped nuts inside the casserole before baking adds wonderful flavors and texture contrasts. Just distribute them evenly to avoid sogginess.

Final Thoughts

This Overnight Cinnamon Maple French Toast Casserole Recipe is one of those wonderful dishes that makes mornings feel effortless and special all at once. Its warm cinnamon-spiced custard, the sweet maple essence, and the perfectly baked bread come together in a way that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re treating yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe is bound to become a beloved classic in your home. Go ahead, give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!

Overnight Cinnamon Maple French Toast Casserole Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need