French Toast Bake (Printable Version)

A comforting casserole of custardy bread cubes infused with cinnamon and vanilla, baked warm and golden.

# Ingredient List:

→ Bread

01 - 1 loaf day-old brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

→ Custard

02 - 6 large eggs
03 - 2 cups whole milk
04 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
05 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
06 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
07 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Topping

09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
10 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

# Directions:

01 - Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Arrange bread cubes evenly in the dish.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and combined.
03 - Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure thorough absorption.
04 - Combine melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Drizzle this mixture over the casserole surface.
05 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight to enhance flavor and texture.
06 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature while the oven heats.
07 - Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
08 - Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally with maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings
  • Crowd-pleasing comfort packed with cinnamon and vanilla
02 -
  • Use slightly stale bread for best texture and custard absorption
  • Dairy-free and gluten-free versions can be made with substitutions
03 -
  • Let the bread soak overnight for extra creamy texture
  • Bake until the top is deeply golden for maximum flavor and crunch
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