Baked French Toast

A delicious take on a morning staple, baked french toast makes for a wonderful way to begin the day. With the addition of fruits or spices and baking to a golden crispness, this meal turns plain bread into a rich, custardy treat. It’s the ideal treat for brunch parties or lazy mornings.

Tasting Notes

This Baked French Toast is a harmonious blend of sweetness, warmth, and a hint of cinnamon. The exterior boasts a delightful crispiness, while the inside remains soft and custard-like. Serve it with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of French bread, preferably a day old, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Kitchen Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease the baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
3. Place the cubed French bread evenly in the baking dish.
4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
5. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure each piece is coated. Press down slightly to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid.
6. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the bread mixture.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8. When ready to bake, remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature while the oven preheats.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
10. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice and enjoy with your favorite toppings.

Pro Tips

• Use day-old bread for better absorption of the egg mixture.
• Experiment with different bread varieties like challah or brioche for a richer flavor.
• Customize the sweetness by adjusting the amount of sugar according to your preference.

Variations

• Add a cup of your favorite nuts or berries to the bread mixture for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• For a decadent treat, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

FAQs

Enjoy your delicious Baked French Toast!