Overnight Maple Cream Cheese French Toast Bake
Indulge in this decadent Overnight Maple Cream Cheese French Toast Bake that effortlessly combines the rich flavors of maple syrup, cream cheese, and vanilla. This delightful breakfast casserole requires minimal preparation and has the perfect balance of sweetness with the option to adjust sugar levels. Ideal for a family brunch or holiday morning treat, the French toast bake is made by soaking cubed bread in a creamy, velvety mixture overnight. When baked to golden perfection, it offers a luscious texture with a delightful crisp on top. Serve it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and additional maple syrup for an unforgettable morning feast.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
bread cubes
10 cups (cut into 1-inch cubes)
cream cheese
8 ounces (softened)
sugar
3-4 tablespoons (optional or to taste)
eggs
8 large (slightly beaten)
full-fat milk
1.5 cups (none)
half-and-half cream
2/3 cup (or use all half-and-half cream)
maple syrup
1/2 cup (none)
vanilla
2 teaspoons (none)
powdered sugar
to taste (for dusting)
Instructions
1
Lightly butter a 13 x 9-inch baking dish and fill it with 10 cups of 1-inch bread cubes.
2
Using an electric mixer, beat the softened 8-ounce cream cheese with 3-4 tablespoons of sugar (optional) until smooth.
3
Gradually add 8 slightly beaten large eggs, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate into the cream cheese.
4
Pour in 1.5 cups of full-fat milk, 2/3 cup of half-and-half cream, 1/2 cup of maple syrup, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, blending until the mixture is creamy and uniform.
5
Evenly pour the cream cheese mixture over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Use a fork or spoon to gently press and stir the cubes so they absorb the mixture evenly.
6
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or up to 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
7
Preheat the oven to 375°F the following morning. Allow the baking dish to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
8
Bake the casserole uncovered for 45-50 minutes, until it is set and has developed a golden-brown crust.
9
After removing the dish from the oven, let it cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar and serve it with a drizzle of extra maple syrup for enhanced sweetness.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Overnight Maple Cream Cheese French Toast Bake?
It is a decadent breakfast casserole that combines bread cubes with a creamy mixture of maple syrup, cream cheese, and vanilla, prepared the night before for a simple morning meal.
How much bread is needed for this recipe?
You will need 10 cups of bread cubes.
What size should the bread be cut into?
The bread should be cut into 1-inch cubes.
What is the required amount of cream cheese?
The recipe calls for one 8-ounce package of cream cheese.
Should the cream cheese be softened?
Yes, the cream cheese should be softened to ensure it beats smoothly with the other ingredients.
Is sugar a mandatory ingredient?
No, the 3-4 tablespoons of sugar are optional and can be adjusted to your taste.
How many eggs are used in this French toast bake?
This recipe requires 8 large eggs.
How should the eggs be prepared before mixing?
The eggs should be slightly beaten before being incorporated into the cream cheese.
What kind of milk is best for this recipe?
Full-fat milk is recommended to achieve a creamy and uniform texture.
Can I substitute the half-and-half?
Yes, you can use all half-and-half cream if you prefer a richer consistency.
How much maple syrup is included in the mixture?
The mixture uses 1/2 cup of maple syrup.
How much vanilla extract should I add?
The recipe requires 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
What size baking dish is needed?
A 13 x 9-inch baking dish is the appropriate size for this casserole.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, you should lightly butter the baking dish before adding the bread cubes.
How should the cream cheese and sugar be combined?
Use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until the mixture is smooth.
How do I incorporate the eggs into the cream cheese?
Gradually add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate them.
How do I ensure the bread absorbs the liquid?
Use a fork or spoon to gently press and stir the bread cubes after pouring the mixture over them.
How long does the casserole need to refrigerate?
It should be refrigerated for at least 8 hours, and up to 24 hours.
Should I cover the dish while it is in the refrigerator?
Yes, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in the fridge.
What is the first step on the morning of baking?
Allow the baking dish to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before putting it in the oven.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Do I bake the French toast bake covered or uncovered?
The casserole should be baked uncovered.
How long does the dish take to bake?
It typically takes between 45 to 50 minutes to bake.
How can I tell when the bake is finished?
The casserole is done when it is set and has developed a golden-brown crust.
What should I do after removing it from the oven?
Let the dish cool slightly before adding toppings and serving.
What are the recommended toppings for serving?
Dust the bake with powdered sugar and serve it with an extra drizzle of maple syrup.
What is the final texture of the dish?
It features a luscious, velvety interior with a delightful crisp on the top.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Yes, it is ideal for family brunches or holiday morning treats.
Can I prepare this dish more than 24 hours in advance?
The instructions recommend a maximum refrigeration time of 24 hours for the best results.
What tags describe this recipe?
This recipe is categorized as a sweet, baked breakfast or brunch casserole featuring comfort food flavors.