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Cozy Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe with Cream Cheese Filling

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A warm, comforting overnight French toast casserole with a creamy tangy cream cheese filling, perfect for an easy and cozy breakfast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups thick-cut brioche or challah bread, cubed (day-old or slightly stale)
  • 8 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for filling)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for greasing)
  • Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries, toasted pecans

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: Beat 8 ounces softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes). Set aside.
  2. Cube the Bread: Cut brioche or challah into roughly 1 ½-inch cubes and spread evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Layer the Cream Cheese: Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently swirl with a spatula to create pockets without overmixing.
  4. Make the Custard: Whisk together 8 large eggs, 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, ½ cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
  5. Pour Custard Over Bread: Slowly pour custard evenly over the bread and cream cheese. Press down lightly to help bread soak up custard.
  6. Cover and Refrigerate Overnight: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
  7. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Let casserole sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until top is golden and custard is set.
  8. Rest and Serve: Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with optional toppings like powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries, or toasted nuts.

Notes

Use day-old or slightly stale bread for best custard absorption. If bread is too fresh, toast briefly before soaking. Cover casserole tightly and refrigerate overnight for best texture. Tent with foil if top browns too quickly during baking. Variations include adding fresh or frozen berries, using gluten-free bread, or making vegan substitutions with plant-based milk and vegan cream cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight French toast casserole, cream cheese filling, easy breakfast, brunch recipe, custard soaked bread, cozy breakfast

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/cozy-overnight-french-toast-casserole-recipe-with-cream-cheese-filling-easy-and-perfect-for-breakfast/