baked french toast
This baked French toast recipe is a delightful and easy brunch dish that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and vanilla. Perfect for serving a crowd, it's baked in the oven, making it a satisfying and hearty option for breakfast or brunch.
Equipment
- 1 9x13 inch baking dish
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 whisk
- 1 measuring cups
- 1 measuring spoons
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 1 loaf stale bread, preferably challah or brioche 16 oz
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup maple syrup for serving
- powdered sugar optional, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Cut the stale bread into 1-inch cubes and place them evenly in the greased baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are coated. Press down gently with a spatula to submerge any bread that floats.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.
- Once ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Let the baked French toast cool for a few minutes before cutting it into squares.
- Serve warm with maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired.
Notes
For added flavor, you can mix in some chocolate chips or berries before baking.
If you prefer a richer taste, consider using half-and-half instead of the heavy cream.
Stale bread works best for this recipe, as it absorbs the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy.