Baked French Toast Recipe

Introduction

Baked French toast is a comforting and elegant breakfast dish that pleases a crowd with minimal effort. This recipe uses a classic French baguette soaked in a rich custard mixture, then baked to golden perfection. It’s perfect for weekends or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons salted butter, softened (for buttering the baking dish)
• 14 ounces French baguette (about 397 grams)
• 8 extra large eggs
• 1½ cups half and half
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon pure almond extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar (for dusting after baking)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Use a pastry brush to butter a 9×13-inch (or 13×9-inch) baking dish.
2. Step 2: Slice the ends off the baguette, then cut the rest into ¾-inch thick slices. You may include the ends in the recipe if you like.
3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl (3-4 quarts), combine the eggs, half and half, heavy cream, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, almond extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Step 4: Whisk or use a handheld mixer on low speed to mix the ingredients until fully combined.
5. Step 5: Submerge each slice of baguette in the egg mixture, soaking for 5 seconds per side. Layer the dipped slices in the prepared baking dish, overlapping as needed. Pour any leftover egg mixture over the bread.
6. Step 6: Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the French toast is puffed and golden. Dust the top with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use slightly stale bread for better soaking and texture.
• Substitute half and half and heavy cream with all milk for a lighter custard.
• Add fresh berries or sliced bananas on top before serving for extra flavor.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread and check that all extracts are gluten-free.

Storage

Store leftover baked French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until warm and slightly crisp on top.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this recipe the night before?

Yes, you can assemble the soaked bread in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

What can I use instead of a French baguette?

Thickly sliced challah, brioche, or Texas toast also work well due to their sturdy yet absorbent texture.

Baked French Toast Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 91 reviews

This Baked French Toast recipe offers a decadent and easy way to enjoy a classic breakfast favorite. Made with thick slices of French baguette soaked in a rich custard of eggs, cream, brown sugar, and warm spices, then baked until puffed and golden. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation and sweet touch, this dish is perfect for brunch or a special morning treat.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Baked French Toast:

• 2 tablespoons salted butter, softened (for buttering the baking dish)
• 14 ounces French baguette (about 397 grams)
• 8 extra large eggs
• 1½ cups half and half
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon pure almond extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

For Serving:

• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a pastry brush to evenly butter a 9×13-inch (or 13×9-inch) baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
2. Slice the baguette: Remove the ends of the baguette and slice the rest into ¾-inch thick pieces. You can include the end pieces in the recipe if you prefer, making use of the entire loaf.
3. Make the custard mixture: In a large mixing bowl (3-4 quarts), combine the eggs, half and half, heavy cream, light brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, almond extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Whisk together or use a handheld mixer on low speed until the mixture is fully blended and smooth.
4. Soak the bread slices: Submerge each baguette slice into the custard mixture, holding it for 5 seconds on each side to ensure thorough soaking. Arrange the soaked slices in the buttered baking dish, layering and slightly overlapping them. Pour any leftover custard evenly over the top.
5. Bake the French toast: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes. The French toast is done when it is puffed up and golden brown around the edges.
6. Serve: Once baked, dust the top generously with powdered sugar. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

• You can prepare this dish the night before: assemble the soaked bread in the dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight before baking.
• For added texture, consider sprinkling chopped nuts or berries on top before baking.
• This recipe uses a combination of half and half and heavy cream for a rich custard; you can substitute with whole milk for a lighter version.
• Make sure not to soak the bread too long to avoid it becoming mushy; 5 seconds per side is ideal to maintain structure.
• Use fresh spices for the best flavor impact and adjust the amount of cinnamon or nutmeg to your preference.

Keywords: Baked French Toast, brunch recipe, breakfast casserole, custard soaked bread, maple syrup French toast