Name: Overnight Monkey Bread French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 12 medium-sized dinner rolls ((a 14-ounce package)); 4 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar ((25g)); 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup unsalted butter ((melted, 113g)); 1 pinch salt; ¾ cup packed brown sugar ((150g))

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If you’re looking for a delightful breakfast that feels indulgent yet is incredibly easy to prepare, look no further than this Overnight Monkey Bread French Toast Casserole. It combines the beloved flavors of monkey bread with the comforting essence of French toast, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy weekend brunch. The beauty of this casserole lies not only in its rich, gooey texture but also in the fact that you can prepare it the night before and let it work its magic in the fridge. In the morning, all you need to do is pop it in the oven, and soon you’ll have a warm, sweet dish that will impress family and friends alike.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Overnight Monkey Bread French Toast Casserole stands out for several reasons. First, it’s a time-saver; you can assemble it the night before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you sleep. Second, it features the classic flavors of cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla, creating a sweet aroma that fills your kitchen. Finally, using dinner rolls gives it a fluffy, airy texture that is both satisfying and fun to eat. The melted butter and brown sugar create a caramel-like sauce that seeps into the rolls, making every bite a luscious experience.

Your Shopping Guide

To make this delicious casserole, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:

12 medium-sized dinner rolls (a 14-ounce package) – These provide the perfect base for the casserole.
4 large eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients together.
1 cup milk – Adds creaminess to the custard mixture.
2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar – Enhances sweetness and flavor.
1 teaspoon cinnamon – Brings warmth and depth to the dish.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a lovely fragrance and richness.
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted – Ensures a rich texture and flavor.
Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness of the dish.
¾ cup (150g) packed brown sugar – Creates a delicious caramel-like topping.

Recommended Tools

Before you begin, make sure you have these essential tools ready:

Large mixing bowl – For combining the egg and milk mixture.
Baking dish – A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly for this recipe.
Whisk – To thoroughly mix the custard ingredients.
Knife – For cutting the dinner rolls into pieces.
Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate measurements.

Build Overnight Monkey Bread French Toast Casserole Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Dinner Rolls

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take your dinner rolls and cut them into quarters. This will help them soak up the delicious custard mixture better.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, crack the four large eggs and whisk them together. Add in the cup of milk, two tablespoons of granulated sugar, one teaspoon of cinnamon, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until all the ingredients are well combined and smooth.

Step 3: Combine Rolls and Custard

Place the quartered dinner rolls into the baking dish and pour the custard mixture evenly over them. Gently toss the rolls to ensure they are well coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the rolls to absorb the custard, resulting in a rich, flavorful casserole.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and packed brown sugar. Mix until it’s smooth and well combined. This will create a delicious topping that adds sweetness and moisture to the casserole.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

The next morning, remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes while you preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Drizzle the brown sugar and butter mixture over the top of the casserole, ensuring even coverage. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut into squares and serve warm. For an extra touch, drizzle with maple syrup or sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your delicious Overnight Monkey Bread French Toast Casserole with family and friends!

Variations by Season

To keep this recipe fresh and exciting throughout the year, consider trying these seasonal variations:

Fall: Add diced apples and a dash of nutmeg to the custard for a cozy, autumnal flavor.
Winter: Incorporate cranberries and orange zest to brighten the dish during the colder months.
Spring: Mix in fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a burst of color and freshness.
Summer: Use peaches or cherries and top with a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a tropical twist.

Learn from These Mistakes

Creating the perfect Overnight Monkey Bread French Toast Casserole can be straightforward, but here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Not letting the casserole sit overnight: This step is crucial for the dinner rolls to fully absorb the custard.
Using stale dinner rolls: Fresh rolls will provide the best texture. If your rolls are stale, consider toasting them lightly before adding the custard.
Skipping the butter and brown sugar topping: This mixture adds a crucial layer of sweetness and richness that elevates the dish.
Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole towards the end of the baking time to prevent it from drying out.

Shelf Life & Storage

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to store and enjoy them later:

Store any leftover Overnight Monkey Bread French Toast Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze the casserole before baking. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Ask the Chef

Can I use a different type of bread for this casserole?

Absolutely! While dinner rolls are ideal, you can substitute them with brioche, challah, or even croissants. Just cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they soak up the custard well.

Is it necessary to refrigerate overnight?

Refrigerating overnight allows the bread to absorb the custard mixture fully, enhancing the flavor and texture. If you’re short on time, try to let it sit for at least 30 minutes before baking, but overnight is best.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! You can easily substitute the milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other dairy-free milk. Just ensure your butter substitute is also dairy-free.

What can I serve with the casserole?

This casserole is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Overnight Monkey Bread French Toast Casserole is not just a breakfast dish; it’s an experience that brings people together around the table. Its delightful combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout at any brunch gathering. Whether you’re making it for a casual family breakfast or a festive holiday brunch, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, prepare it the night before, and enjoy the sweet aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes. Each bite is a reminder of the joy of shared meals and cherished moments, making it a perfect addition to your recipe collection.