Baked French Toast
Enjoy the perfect start to your day with baked french toast! This easy-to-make dish combines the sweetness of custard-soaked bread with delightful toppings, making it a breakfast favorite. Ideal for serving a crowd, it offers a warm, comforting experience that pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or maple syrup. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your morning routine!
Ingredients
- 6 slices of thick bread (such as brioche or challah)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Butter (for greasing)
- Fresh fruit and syrup for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 30-35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g protein, 15g fat, 25g carbohydrates, and 3g fiber. This is based on standard ingredients used in the recipe.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Arrange the bread slices in the baking dish.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring each slice is soaked.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with fresh fruit and maple syrup on top.
- Enjoy your delicious baked french toast!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread or use almond milk instead of dairy milk for a lactose-free version. Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or use flavored extracts for extra depth.
Serving and Pairings
Baked french toast pairs beautifully with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a dollop of whipped cream. Feel free to serve it alongside a light yogurt or crispy bacon for a balanced breakfast.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover baked french toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a toaster or microwave until warmed through. It can also be frozen for up to a month; just thaw and reheat before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using stale bread can lead to a dry texture.
- Not soaking the bread long enough can result in uneven custard absorption.
- Overbaking will make the dish dry.
- Forgetting to grease the dish can cause sticking.
- Skipping the refrigeration step may affect the dish’s texture.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different types of bread for varied flavors.
- Add nuts or chocolate chips for a special twist.
- Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
- Consider adding a layer of jam or cream cheese between the bread slices.
FAQs
Can I make baked french toast ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it in the morning for a fresh breakfast.
What type of bread is best for this recipe?
Thick, sturdy bread such as brioche, challah, or sourdough works best as it absorbs the custard without falling apart.
Can I use egg substitutes?
Absolutely! You can use flaxseed meal or commercial egg replacers for a vegan version.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
It’s done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Can I add fruit to the mixture?
Yes, adding berries or sliced bananas to the bread before pouring the custard enhances flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
Baked french toast is a delightful and versatile dish that brings comfort and joy to any breakfast table. With its ease of preparation and delicious flavors, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and making it your own!

Baked French Toast
Ingredients
- 6 slices of thick bread brioche or challah
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Butter for greasing
- Fresh fruit and syrup for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Arrange the bread slices in the baking dish.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring each slice is soaked.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with fresh fruit and maple syrup on top.
- Enjoy your delicious baked french toast!