Save A warm, comforting breakfast casserole featuring custardy day-old bread, baked to golden perfection with hints of cinnamon and vanilla.
I first tried making this French Toast Bake on a chilly weekend morning when I wanted something cozy but effortless. Watching my family gather around the table and dig into the casserole, I knew this was going to become a breakfast tradition in our home.
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 dish:
- 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.
- Mix custard:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
- Assemble bake:
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure all pieces are soaked.
- Add 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 Gathering together for breakfast, this dish has become a reason for my family to linger at the table and share a slow start to the day. My children especially love adding their own toppings and making each serving unique.
Required Tools
You'll need a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish, mixing bowls, a whisk, and measuring cups and spoons to prepare this recipe.
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, dairy, and gluten. Always check bread ingredients if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 320 calories, 13 g total fat, 40 g carbohydrates, and 10 g protein.
Save Try serving French Toast Bake with maple syrup and fresh fruit for a satisfying breakfast. Enjoy how easy and versatile this recipe is for weekends or holidays!
Recipe FAQ Section
- → Can I use different types of bread?
Yes, day-old brioche or challah breads work best for rich texture, but any sturdy bread will absorb the custard well.
- → Is it possible to prepare this in advance?
Absolutely, refrigerate the assembled dish for at least 30 minutes or overnight to enhance flavor and custard absorption.
- → What are suitable toppings for this dish?
A melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon mix is traditional, but nuts or fresh fruit make excellent additions.
- → Can I substitute dairy ingredients?
Dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk can be used, but they may slightly alter the custard’s richness.
- → How do I know when it’s fully baked?
Look for a set custard and a golden brown top; a gentle jiggle in the center is normal before cooling.