Ingredients:
1 loaf French bread (or Texas Toast)
8 eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream (half and half can be used as a substitute)
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, divided
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small squares
Instructions:
Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Prepare the Bread: Start by cutting the French bread or Texas Toast into 3/4 to 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes into a large mixing bowl.
Mix the Egg Mixture: In the same bowl with the bread cubes, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. Ensure all the bread cubes are thoroughly coated with the egg mixture.
Prepare the Topping: In a separate small bowl or food processor, combine flour, remaining 1/2 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. If using a food processor, pulse briefly to mix. Add cold butter pieces and either cut in with a fork or pulse in the food processor until the mixture becomes crumbly and resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
Assemble the French Toast Bake: Pour the bread and egg mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out so that it forms a smooth layer.
Add the Topping: Sprinkle the prepared brown sugar-butter topping evenly over the bread mixture in the baking dish. This topping will bake into a deliciously crispy crust.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the center of the bake is set and no longer wet.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Drizzle with warm maple syrup for an authentic French toast experience.
Variations:
Fruit Additions: Mix in fresh berries or sliced bananas with the bread cubes before baking for a fruity twist.
Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds over the topping for added crunch.
Dietary Substitutions: Use dairy-free milk and cream substitutes for a dairy-free version. Substitute gluten-free bread and flour for a gluten-free option.
Conclusion:
Easy French Toast Bake is not just a breakfast dish; it’s a delightful experience that brings together the warmth of cinnamon, the richness of vanilla, and the comforting texture of French bread. Whether you’re hosting brunch for a crowd or simply treating your family to a special morning, this bake delivers on flavor and ease. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity — no overnight chilling required, just straightforward assembly and baking. The result? A golden-brown, crispy-topped bake that melts in your mouth with each bite, perfectly complemented by a drizzle of warm maple syrup. Enjoy the magic of French toast in a new, convenient form with this Easy French Toast Bake recipe!
