Overnight French Toast Casserole Ingredients: 1 loaf day old French bread whole wheat, brioche, challah, or ciabatta, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10 cups of bread cubes) 6 large eggs 2 1⁄4 cups milk I used whole milk 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup or light brown sugar 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1⁄4 teaspoon salt Topping: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted 2 tablespoons light brown sugar or pure maple syrup 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Instructions 1. Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or melted butter. Place the bread cubes in an even layer in the dish. 2. In a large bowl whisk together the eggs, milk, 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup or brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla and salt. 3. Pour the mixture evenly over the bread in the dish. 4. OPTIONAL TOPPING: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or maple syrup) and cinnamon. Drizzle over the casserole. 5. At this point, you can refrigerate the casserole overnight (covered) and bake in the morning, or let it rest for 20-30 minutes (in the refrigerator) and then bake right away. 6. When you are ready to bake the casserole, preheat the oven to 350° F. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Uncover and bake for 10-20 minutes more, until the top is lightly browned and the casserole is set. Serve with fresh fruit and maple syrup, as desired. #valentinesday #brunchideas #brunchtime #brunchrecipe #frenchtoast #frenchtoastrecipe #galentinesday #galentinesparty #breakfastideas