If you're looking for a delightful breakfast or brunch dish that combines the comfort of French toast with the convenience of a bake, then look no further than Baked French Toast. This recipe transforms the classic French toast into a casserole that can feed a crowd, making it perfect for holiday mornings, special occasions, or when you want to treat your family to something truly special. Here's how you can prepare this scrumptious dish.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread or brioche, cut into 1-inch thick slices
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 3⁄4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of nutmeg
- 1⁄4 teaspoon of salt
- Butter, for greasing the baking dish
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Maple syrup, for serving
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter. Arrange the slices of bread in the dish in a single layer, slightly overlapping if necessary.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. This custard mixture will be the base that gives your French toast its signature softness and flavor.
Step 3: Soak the Bread
Pour the custard over the bread, making sure to cover each slice. If the bread looks dry on top, use a spatula or your hands to press it down into the mixture. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to soak up all the flavors and liquids, making it extra fluffy and delicious.
Step 4: Bake
The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator while the oven is heating. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the French toast is puffed up, golden brown, and the custard is set.
Step 5: Serve
Let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar for a sweet touch and serve warm with maple syrup.
🍳 Note: If you notice the top browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
🍞 Note: For an extra burst of flavor, you can sprinkle some chopped nuts or dried fruit over the top before baking.
As you explore the joy of making Baked French Toast, here are some additional considerations to ensure the best results:
Tips for Perfect French Toast Bake
- Choose the Right Bread: Thick slices of bread are essential for good soaking. Brioche or challah work wonderfully due to their rich texture.
- Advance Preparation: The longer the bread soaks, the better the texture. Ideally, prepare the dish the night before.
- Temperature Matters: Bring the casserole to room temperature before baking if time permits for even cooking.
- Customization: Feel free to add mix-ins like blueberries, bananas, or even chocolate chips for a fun twist.
Wrapping up this bake, remember that the beauty of Baked French Toast lies in its simplicity and the warmth it brings to the breakfast table. It's a forgiving recipe, perfect for beginners, yet sophisticated enough for culinary enthusiasts. This casserole not only fills your home with a heavenly aroma but also ensures that your breakfast or brunch is memorable. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, Baked French Toast is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Can I make this without an overnight soak?
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Yes, although the texture might not be as fluffy. Soak the bread for at least 30 minutes before baking if you’re in a rush.
Can I use skim milk instead of whole milk and cream?
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While you can use skim milk, the result will be less rich. You might consider adding more eggs or a bit of melted butter to compensate.
How can I make a healthier version of this recipe?
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Opt for whole grain or multigrain bread, use almond or oat milk, and reduce the sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
What can I serve with Baked French Toast?
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Fresh fruit, whipped cream, yogurt, or even a sprinkle of granola are great additions to complement the dish.
How should I store leftovers?
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Cool the leftovers completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain its texture.
