Pin It A warm, comforting breakfast casserole featuring custardy day-old bread, baked to golden perfection with hints of cinnamon and vanilla.
I made this French Toast Bake for my family during a snowy weekend morning. The aroma of cinnamon and vanilla filled our kitchen, and everyone gathered around the table in anticipation.
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 the Bread:
- 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.
- Make the Custard:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
- Assemble:
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure all pieces are soaked.
- Add the 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 oven to 175°C (350°F). Remove dish from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature while oven heats. Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until top is golden brown and custard is set.
- Serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally with maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar.
Pin It Last holiday season, my kids loved helping layer the bread and drizzle the sweet topping. This cozy bake quickly became a weekend family tradition in our house.
Required Tools
Use a 23 x 33 cm baking dish, mixing bowls, whisk, and measuring cups for easy prep and baking.
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, dairy, and gluten (wheat) so check bread ingredients for extra allergies.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 320 , Total Fat: 13 g , Carbohydrates: 40 g , Protein: 10 g
Pin It Enjoy this French Toast Bake for breakfast or brunch, and savor every warm, custardy bite with your favorite toppings.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of bread works best for this dish?
Day-old brioche or challah bread cubes absorb the custard well, providing a tender yet sturdy texture when baked.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, refrigerate the assembled dish for at least 30 minutes or overnight to let the bread soak fully before baking.
- → How do I know when it’s perfectly baked?
The top should be golden brown and the custard fully set but still moist when gently pressed.
- → Are there variations for added texture?
Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping gives a pleasant nutty crunch.
- → What can I serve alongside?
Fresh berries, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar complement the warm custardy richness beautifully.