Name: Hasselback Baked French Toast Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 baguette / French stick, 60 cm / 2 feet long; 5 eggs; 1 1/3 cup milk (preferably whole fat, but low fat works fine); 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract or essence (optional); 1/4 cup butter; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 2 tbsp maple syrup; Icing sugar (confectioners sugar), for dusting; Maple syrup, for serving

Introduction

Hasselback Baked French Toast is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. This recipe features a baguette sliced like hasselback potatoes, soaked in a rich egg mixture, then baked to golden perfection. It’s a fun, impressive dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for weekend brunch or special occasions.

A white plate holds a thick, golden-brown bread pudding cut into five rectangular pieces, each topped with a light dusting of white powdered sugar. A rich caramel sauce is being poured over the bread pudding from a white jug, creating a shiny, smooth layer that trickles down the sides. The texture of the bread looks soft and moist inside with a slightly crisp, browned exterior. A silver fork rests next to the bread pudding on the plate. In the background, there is a white baking dish with more bread pudding, a glass jar with cinnamon sticks, a small white bowl filled with white granulated sugar, some small purple flowers, and a white marbled texture surface under everything. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 baguette / french stick (60 cm / 2 feet long)

5 eggs

1 1/3 cups milk (preferably whole fat, low fat works fine)

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 cup butter

2 tbsp brown sugar

2 tbsp maple syrup

1/2 tsp cinnamon powder

1/2 tsp vanilla extract or essence (optional)

Icing sugar (confectioners sugar), for dusting

Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the baguette into 3 equal pieces.

Step 2: Slice each piece about 1.5 cm (0.5 inch) thick almost all the way through to the base, creating a hasselback effect.

Step 3: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla extract if using.

Step 4: Place the egg mixture and bread pieces into a sealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible, seal, and set aside for at least 1 hour or overnight, turning once or twice to ensure the bread absorbs the mixture evenly.

Step 5: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 6: Transfer the soaked bread to a baking dish, cut side up.

Step 7: Bake for 20 minutes until the toast starts to set.

Step 8: While baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until combined. Alternatively, melt it in the microwave in two 30-second bursts, stirring in between.

Step 9: Remove the bread from the oven and pour the melted butter mixture over it. Return to the oven and bake an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.

Step 10: Let the baked French toast rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven.

Step 11: Dust with icing sugar and serve warm with extra maple syrup.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a handful of fresh berries or sliced bananas between the slices before baking.

Use thick-cut brioche or challah bread instead of baguette for a richer texture.

If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use a plant-based butter alternative.

Soaking the bread overnight allows for more intense flavor and moist texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?

Yes, while a baguette works best for the hasselback effect, you can use sturdy breads like brioche, challah, or even sourdough. Just ensure the slices don’t fall apart when scored.

How long should I soak the bread in the egg mixture?

At least 1 hour is recommended to allow the bread to absorb the custard evenly. For best results, soak overnight in the refrigerator, turning the bag occasionally.