Baked French Toast Bake

Name: Baked French Toast Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread, cut into cubes; 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Butter for greasing the baking dish

Highlighted under: Celebration Table Recipes

I love starting my mornings with a delicious Baked French Toast Bake. This dish combines the rich flavors of traditional French toast with the convenience of a baking dish, making it perfect for feeding a crowd. The sweet smell of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through the kitchen is enough to get anyone excited about breakfast. Plus, the texture is delightfully fluffy yet hearty, providing a comfort that sets the tone for the day. Trust me, this recipe is a game changer for brunch gatherings and lazy weekends alike.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-02-20T14:18:18.651Z

When I first tried making Baked French Toast Bake, I was amazed at how simple and satisfying it was. Using day-old bread gives this dish a unique texture that perfectly absorbs the egg mixture, resulting in a creamy, custard-like center. I experimented with various breads, and found that brioche or challah works best for that melt-in-your-mouth experience. The outcome was a beautifully golden-brown top, with a soft and fluffy interior.

To elevate the dish, I like to add a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of fresh berries. It not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavors. Another tip is to prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. Each bite feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Comforting and satisfying breakfast perfect for gatherings
The combination of flavors – vanilla, cinnamon, and syrup
Easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time

The Importance of Bread Choice

Choosing the right bread is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Baked French Toast Bake. Brioche and challah bread are excellent options due to their rich, buttery flavor and soft, custardy interior. They absorb the egg mixture well without becoming overly soggy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you might consider using a day-old baguette or sourdough, which can provide a delightful chew while still soaking up all the flavors.

When cutting the bread into cubes, aim for uniform pieces, ideally around one inch in size. Uniformity ensures even soaking and baking, leading to a cohesive bake. Avoid cutting too small, as this can lead to a mushy texture. If you want to switch things up, experimenting with flavored or stuffed breads can add an exciting twist to your dish.

Perfecting the Egg Mixture

The egg mixture is where the rich flavor of your Baked French Toast Bake comes to life. The combination of eggs, milk, and heavy cream leads to a custard-like consistency that makes every bite a comforting experience. Heavy cream adds richness while milk keeps the mixture light. If you're looking for a lower-calorie alternative, try using whole milk or a milk substitute like almond milk, though this may slightly alter the richness of the final product.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of orange or almond extract to the egg mixture. These subtle notes can elevate your dish and create a delightful aroma as it bakes. Whisk the mixture until it is just combined; over-whisking can introduce too much air, resulting in a less satisfying texture when baked.

Serving and Storing Tips

Baked French Toast Bake is best enjoyed fresh from the oven. After baking, allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes to help it set before serving; this makes portioning easier and less messy. Drizzling with warm maple syrup is a classic choice, but toppings like whipped cream, fresh fruit, or even a dusting of powdered sugar can add a colorful and flavorful touch.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to two months; just be sure to wrap them tightly. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful Baked French Toast Bake:

Ingredients

1 loaf of brioche or challah bread, cut into cubes
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
Butter for greasing the baking dish

These ingredients will come together for a delicious breakfast treat!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Baked French Toast Bake:

Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter. Place the cubed bread into the dish and set aside.

Mix the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

Combine and Soak

Pour the egg mixture over the cubed bread, pressing down gently to ensure the bread absorbs the mixture. Cover with plastic wrap and allow it to soak for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the fridge if desired.

Bake

Uncover the dish and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Serve

Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup and add fresh berries if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Baked French Toast Bake!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the bread mixture before baking for added flavor and texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Properly storing your Baked French Toast Bake can extend its freshness and flavor. If you plan on making it a day ahead, cover the baked dish with plastic wrap or foil before placing it in the fridge; this will help retain moisture. On the other hand, if you want to freeze it, ensure it's completely cooled before wrapping tightly to avoid freezer burn.

When it comes time to reheat, using an oven instead of a microwave will preserve the texture better. Just cover the dish with foil and pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through. This method will prevent the top from getting too hard or dry while ensuring the inside is nice and fluffy.

Customizing Your Baked French Toast

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste by adding ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits into the bread mixture before baking. These variations can provide unexpected bursts of flavor and texture. Also, spices such as cardamom or ginger can be substituted for cinnamon if you're looking to experiment a bit more.

If you're accommodating dietary restrictions, consider alternatives such as gluten-free bread or a dairy-free milk substitute, which can help make this recipe accessible for everyone while still maintaining satisfying results. Just be mindful of the soaking time, as some gluten-free breads may need a little more time to adequately absorb the custard mixture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use any type of bread, but brioche or challah will give you the best results in terms of texture and flavor.

→ Can the dish be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything the night before and store it in the fridge, then bake it in the morning.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked dish. Just cover tightly and store in the freezer. Bake from frozen, adding extra time if needed.