Overnight Cream Cheese Toast

This overnight cream cheese French toast bake is perfect for busy mornings when you want something comforting and special without a lot of fuss. It soaks overnight so you wake up to a rich, custardy breakfast that feels indulgent but is easy to prepare ahead.

I first made this after rushing to get breakfast on a holiday morning and now it’s our go-to for brunch with friends.

Ingredients

• Six cups of sturdy white or brioche bread cut into cubes: brioche brings extra richness but a crusty white bread works well too for texture
• Eight ounces of softened cream cheese: gives creamy bursts and tang which balances sweet custard, make sure it’s softened to spread easily
• Six large eggs: bind the custard and provide richness, room temperature eggs blend more smoothly
• Two cups of whole milk or half-and-half: using half-and-half makes the custard silkier but milk keeps it lighter
• One teaspoon of vanilla extract: adds warm, aromatic sweetness
• Quarter cup of maple syrup or one third cup of sugar: maple syrup gives depth and natural sweetness, choose pure if possible
• Half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon: brings subtle spicy warmth, fresh ground is best for vibrant flavor
• Two tablespoons of butter for greasing and dotting on top: butter helps crisp up the top and adds a nutty richness

Instructions

Prepare the Bread and Cream Cheese Layers:

Cut the bread into cubes, then evenly layer half in a greased casserole dish. Drop small spoonfuls of softened cream cheese evenly across this first layer to allow little pockets of creaminess throughout. Top with remaining bread cubes to create a thick base that will soak custard well.

Whisk the Custard Mixture:

In a large bowl, beat eggs, milk or half-and-half, vanilla, maple syrup or sugar, and cinnamon until everything is fully combined and smooth. This mixture is the magic soak that softens the bread and infuses it with warm sweet flavor.

Pour and Press:

Pour the custard evenly over the bread layers in the dish. Use the back of a spoon or your hand to gently press the bread so it absorbs as much liquid as possible. Be thorough but gentle so the bread stays intact but fully soaked. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh overnight.

Refrigerate Overnight:

Place the covered casserole in the fridge for at least six hours or overnight. This resting period allows the bread to absorb the custard fully and for the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a creamy, custard-filled delight by morning.

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the cover and dot the top with butter bits if you like a golden, slightly crisp crust. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean indicating the custard is set. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

My favorite part has to be those little cream cheese pockets that surprise you in every bite. It reminds me of cozy holiday mornings at my grandmother’s house when everyone gathered around the table for breakfast, making memories one bite at a time.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve texture instead of microwaving, which can make it rubbery.

Ingredient Swaps

Try swapping cream cheese for mascarpone for a sweeter creaminess or ricotta for a lighter texture. Use almond or oat milk with plant-based cream cheese for a vegan twist. Maple syrup can be replaced with honey or agave nectar depending on your preference.

Serving Ideas

Serve warm topped with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup. A dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt adds a lovely tang contrast. Sprinkle chopped nuts on top for crunch and extra flavor.

Seasonal Twists

Add diced apples and a pinch of nutmeg for a fall-inspired bake. In winter, toss in some frozen cranberries or chopped pears. For spring, fresh lemon zest in the custard brings a fresh bright note to the richness.

This French toast bake is a reliable favorite that pairs ease with indulgence perfectly. Once you try it, it’ll quickly become a brunch staple for your family and friends.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of bread works best for this dish?

Sturdy breads like white or brioche hold their shape well and absorb custard without becoming mushy.

→ Can I use milk alternatives in the custard?

Yes, whole milk or half-and-half offers richness, but you can substitute with plant-based milk for a lighter texture.

→ Why is the dish refrigerated overnight before baking?

Allowing the bread to soak overnight ensures the custard fully penetrates, creating a tender, custardy interior.

→ How do I know when the bake is done?

The top should be golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean, indicating the custard is set.

→ What is the purpose of dotting butter on top before baking?

Adding butter on top promotes browning and adds a rich, slightly crisp finish to the baked dish.