French Toast Bake
French Toast Bake: A Warm Morning Treat
There’s something incredibly comforting about French toast, especially when it’s baked to perfection.
This French Toast Bake brings all the classic flavors you love into a delightful casserole that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. It’s easy to make, and the best part?
You can prepare it ahead of time! Imagine waking up to the cozy aroma of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through your kitchen, making it a perfect morning for you and your loved ones.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 300
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 250mg
Why I Love This French Toast Bake
I love this French Toast Bake because it brings back fond memories of family gatherings and lazy weekend mornings.
The warm, custardy texture of the baked bread is simply irresistible, and the hint of cinnamon and vanilla makes every bite a delicious indulgence. Plus, it’s so easy to assemble—you can prepare it the night before and just pop it in the oven the next morning.
It’s perfect for special occasions, or even just when you want to treat yourself to something extra special!
Ingredients
- 8 slices of bread
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup butter (melted)
- Maple syrup (for serving)
How to Make French Toast Bake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your French Toast Bake cooks evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. A 9×13 inch dish works perfectly for this recipe.
Step 3: Cut the Bread
Cut the bread into cubes. This is a great time to use up any stale bread you have lying around; it works wonderfully in this dish!
Step 4: Assemble the Bread Cubes
Place the cubed bread into the greased baking dish, distributing it evenly.
Step 5: Make the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Step 6: Pour the Mixture Over the Bread
Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring they are evenly coated. Press down gently with a spatula to help the bread soak in the mixture.
Step 7: Add Butter
Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the mixture. This will create a deliciously crispy top as it bakes.
Step 8: Let Go of the Time
Allow the dish to sit for about 15 minutes so the bread has time to soak in all that delectable mixture.
Step 9: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Step 10: Serve
Serve warm, drizzling maple syrup over the top for an extra touch of sweetness.
Tips & Variations
- To make this dish a bit more indulgent, consider adding chocolate chips or fresh berries into the bread mixture before baking.
- If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use whole-grain or gluten-free bread.
- For added texture, sprinkle some chopped nuts or a crumb topping on before baking.
- Consider serving with fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.
Delicious Variations
- Overnight Oats: A healthy breakfast option that you can prepare the night before.
- Banana Bread Pudding: A gooey, sweet treat that’s perfect for using up ripe bananas.
- Cinnamon Roll Casserole: A delightful twist on the classic breakfast rolls, baked in one dish for convenience.
- Baked Apple French Toast: A seasonal variation that includes warm spiced apples for that perfect autumn flavor.
Serving Suggestions for French Toast Bake
The best way to enjoy this French Toast Bake is warm, right out of the oven, topped with a generous drizzle of maple syrup. It’s perfect for a leisurely brunch on the weekends or as a special breakfast treat during the holidays. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside crispy bacon or sausage and a fresh fruit salad. Pair it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a mimosa for the ultimate brunch experience.
Storage and Leftovers
If you have leftovers—though they’re often hard to come by—let the bake cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in airtight containers, and they’ll last for up to 2 months. Simply pop them in the microwave or reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
Helpful Questions
Can I prepare the French Toast Bake the night before?
Yes! You can assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning for an easy breakfast.What type of bread works best for this recipe?
Any bread works, but brioche, challah, or even sourdough gives the best flavor and texture.Can I use non-dairy milk?
Absolutely! Almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk can all be used instead of regular milk.How can I make it gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.is it possible to add fillings like fruit or chocolate?
Yes! Feel free to mix in chopped fruits, chocolate chips, or nuts before baking for an extra special twist.
French Toast Bake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm and comforting breakfast casserole that combines classic French toast flavors, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of bread
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup butter (melted)
- Maple syrup (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Cut the bread into cubes.
- Place cubed bread into the greased baking dish, distributing evenly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring they are coated and pressing down gently.
- Drizzle melted butter over the top.
- Let the dish sit for about 15 minutes.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and the center is set.
- Serve warm with maple syrup.
Notes
Consider adding chocolate chips, fresh berries, or nuts for variety. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
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