French Toast Bake (Printable)

Warm baked custardy bread with cinnamon, vanilla, and a sweet buttery topping.

# What You'll Need:

→ 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

# Cooking Steps:

01 - Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray and spread the bread cubes evenly inside.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
03 - Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure thorough soaking.
04 - Mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl, then drizzle evenly over the custard-soaked bread.
05 - Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or preferably overnight for enhanced flavor and texture.
06 - Set oven to 350°F; remove dish from refrigerator and let rest at room temperature while heating.
07 - Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden and custard is fully set.
08 - Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving warm, optionally topped with maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Easy to make ahead for busy mornings
  • Customizable with toppings and mix-ins
02 -
  • Best results come from using slightly stale bread so it absorbs the custard better
  • This recipe can be made dairy-free and gluten-free with simple swaps
03 -
  • Let the casserole soak overnight for deeper flavor and texture
  • Top with chopped nuts or whipped cream for added crunch and richness
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