Overnight French Toast Casserole

Ingredients

• 16 ounce loaf country bread (or a fluffy french loaf (using day-old bread is best))
• 3 1/2 cups half & half
• 8 large eggs
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed (+1 tb for top))
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. 1

   Set out a 9 x 13 inch (3 quart) baking dish. Butter the inside of the dish well and set aside.

2. 2

   Chop the bread into large 1-1 ½ inch chunks. Place the bread chunks in the baking dish and spread out in an even layer.

3. 3

   Set out a mixing bowl. Add the half & half to the bowl. Crack the eggs in the bowl making sure not to drop any shell in the cream. Add the light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Whisk well until fully combined.

4. 4

   Pour the cream and egg mixture slowly over the chopped bread, making sure to coat all the top pieces if possible.

5. 5

   Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap in place in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, but overnight if possible.

6. 6

   Preheat the oven to 375°F. Once the oven is hot, remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is puffed a little. You can check the center by inserting a small paring knife. If it comes out wet, leave in the oven for an additional 5+ minutes.

7. 7

   Cut into 12 large pieces and serve warm.