Save A warm, comforting breakfast casserole featuring custardy day-old bread, baked to golden perfection with hints of cinnamon and vanilla.
I first made this French Toast Bake on a chilly weekend when family visited. The aroma of cinnamon and vanilla filled our kitchen, and everyone enjoyed the cozy atmosphere as the casserole baked.
Ingredients
- Bread: 1 loaf (about 400 g) day-old bread (such as brioche or challah), cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) cubes
- Custard: 6 large eggs, 500 ml (2 cups) whole milk, 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream, 100 g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar, 2 tsp pure vanilla extract, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp salt
- Topping: 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted), 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the bread:
- Grease a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
- Make the custard:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
- Combine bread and custard:
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure all pieces are soaked.
- Add the topping:
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Drizzle this mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Chill:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let sit at room temperature while the oven heats. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally with maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar.
Save When my niece tried this recipe, she asked for seconds and even requested it for her birthday breakfast. Warm French Toast Bake is now a family favorite for weekend gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra indulgence.
Allergen-Friendly Options
Use dairy alternatives and gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 320 calories, 13 g total fat, 40 g carbohydrates, and 10 g protein.
Save This French Toast Bake will brighten any morning and is sure to impress your loved ones with its comforting flavors.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best for this dish?
Day-old bread like brioche or challah with sturdy texture soaks the custard well without becoming soggy.
- → Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate covered for at least 30 minutes or overnight to let flavors meld and custard fully soak.
- → How is the topping made?
A mixture of melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon is drizzled on top for a sweet, spiced crust.
- → What variations can enhance texture or flavor?
Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping adds a pleasant nutty crunch to the soft custard.
- → Are there suitable substitutions for dietary needs?
Dairy alternatives and gluten-free breads can be used to accommodate various dietary preferences without compromising flavor.