Baked French Toast

Name: Baked French Toast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread; 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Butter for greasing; Fresh berries and maple syrup for serving

Indulge in the delightful experience of baked French toast, a perfect blend of comfort and elegance. This dish transforms traditional French toast into a sumptuous baked version, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while minimizing the hands-on cooking time. Ideal for breakfast gatherings or a cozy brunch, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps for this delicious treat!

Ingredients

1 loaf of brioche or challah bread
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Butter for greasing
Fresh berries and maple syrup for serving

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 6 people. The preparation time is about 20 minutes, and the cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 300 calories, 12g of fat, 38g of carbohydrates, and 8g of protein. This nutritional information is based on a standard serving size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
Slice the bread into thick pieces and arrange them in the baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices.
Press the bread down gently to ensure it absorbs the mixture.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and puffed.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve warm with fresh berries and maple syrup.

Alternative Ingredients

If you want to make this dish gluten-free, substitute the bread with gluten-free bread. For a dairy-free option, use almond milk and coconut cream instead of milk and heavy cream.

Serving and Pairings

Baked French toast pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, whipped cream, and a drizzle of maple syrup. It can also be served alongside crispy bacon or sausage for a hearty breakfast.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Using stale bread can lead to a dry texture.
Not letting the bread soak long enough can result in uneven flavors.
Overbaking may cause the dish to dry out.
Forgetting to grease the baking dish can make cleanup difficult.
Skipping the refrigeration step can affect the final texture.
Not pressing the bread down can prevent it from absorbing the egg mixture.

Helpful Tips

Use day-old bread for the best texture.
Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor.
Experiment with different spices like nutmeg.
Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
Try different toppings like yogurt or fruit compote.

FAQs

Can I prepare baked French toast the night before?

Yes, you can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it. This allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture thoroughly.

What type of bread is best for baked French toast?

Brioche or challah is ideal due to their rich texture and ability to absorb the egg mixture well.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular milk and cream with almond milk and coconut cream for a delicious dairy-free version.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when it’s fully baked.

Can I freeze baked French toast?

Yes, it can be frozen. Just ensure it is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and thaw before reheating.

What can I serve with baked French toast?

It pairs well with fresh fruit, whipped cream, maple syrup, or even bacon and sausage for a full breakfast experience.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

Baked French toast is a delightful dish that is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy breakfast at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich flavors and textures, and don’t forget to customize it with your favorite toppings!