French Toast Bake (Print Version)

A warm, custardy bread casserole baked to golden with cinnamon and vanilla notes.

# Components:

→ Bread

01 - 1 loaf day-old brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

→ Custard

02 - 6 large eggs
03 - 2 cups whole milk
04 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
05 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
06 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
07 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Topping

09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
10 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

# Directions:

01 - Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Evenly spread bread cubes in the dish.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
03 - Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure thorough soaking.
04 - Combine melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Drizzle over the casserole top.
05 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight to enhance flavor and texture.
06 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove dish from refrigerator and allow to reach room temperature while oven heats.
07 - Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and custard is set.
08 - Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally with maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy to prepare ahead for busy mornings
  • Comforting flavors that make any breakfast special
02 -
  • This recipe contains eggs dairy and gluten
  • Try using gluten-free bread and non-dairy milk for dietary needs
03 -
  • Let the bread soak overnight for the best texture
  • Add chopped nuts or fruit before baking for extra flavor
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