Description

This Overnight Syrup-On-The-Bottom French Toast recipe is a decadent and easy breakfast casserole featuring layers of challah bread soaked in a rich, buttery brown sugar syrup. Left to marinate overnight and baked to golden perfection, it’s an indulgent treat perfect for serving a crowd.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

1 pound challah bread, sliced

Syrup Mixture

1 1/2 cups dark brown sugar
1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened
1/3 cup corn syrup
2 1/2 cups whole milk
1/4 teaspoon salt

Egg Mixture

4 large eggs
2 1/2 cups whole milk
2 teaspoons cinnamon
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Topping

3 to 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon

Instructions

Prepare the Dish: Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
Make the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the dark brown sugar, softened unsalted butter, corn syrup, whole milk, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring continuously to dissolve the sugar and blend the ingredients smoothly. Once boiling, pour the syrup evenly into the prepared casserole dish, ensuring it covers the bottom completely.
Arrange Bread: Layer the sliced challah bread over the syrup in the dish, allowing some syrup to seep into the bread slices for maximum flavor absorption.
Prepare Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread slices, making sure all pieces are well soaked.
Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil and place it in the refrigerator overnight, or for a minimum of 8 hours, to allow the bread to absorb the custard and syrup fully.
Preheat Oven and Bake: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Keep the casserole covered with foil and bake for 40 minutes to cook the custard through without drying out.
Add Topping and Finish Baking: In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together. Remove the foil from the casserole, sprinkle the sugar-cinnamon mixture evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for another 40 minutes or until the French toast is golden brown and set.

Notes

Challah bread works perfectly for this recipe due to its slightly sweet, soft texture, but brioche or Texas toast can be used as alternatives.
For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
Serving with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar can enhance the flavor.
Make sure not to skip the overnight soak; it helps develop the custardy texture and infuses flavor deeply.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: overnight french toast, syrup on the bottom french toast casserole, challah french toast casserole, easy breakfast casserole, baked french toast