Baked French Toast Recipe
The Baked French toast recipe is a cherished family favorite that has delighted guests at special gatherings. My sister-in-law introduced me to this delightful creation, which gained popularity during her wedding festivities. This dish is a go-to whenever we have friends or family staying over, and it never disappoints. For an extra touch of crunch and flavor, consider sprinkling pecans on top.
Yield
Prep time: 15 mins
Cook time: 40 mins
Additional time: 14 hrs 5 mins
Total time: 15 hrs
Servings: 12
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients
1 (1-pound) loaf French bread, cut diagonally in 1-inch slices
8 eggs
2 cups milk
1 ½ cups half-and-half cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
¾ cup butter
1 ⅓ cups brown sugar
3 tablespoons light corn syrup
Instructions
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Baked French Toast
- Begin by greasing a large baking dish. Place the diagonally sliced French bread into the dish.
- In a mixing bowl, blend the eggs, milk, half-and-half cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
- Pour this mixture evenly over the bread slices. Cover the dish and refrigerate for approximately 12 hours or overnight to allow the bread to absorb the egg mixture thoroughly.
- The following day, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small saucepan on low heat, melt the butter, then stir in the brown sugar and light corn syrup. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the syrup over the soaked bread slices. If desired, sprinkle pecans over the top before placing the dish in the oven.
- Bake for about 40 minutes or until the top is golden and a little crusty.
- Finally, allow it to cool slightly before serving to enjoy its full flavor.
Healthier Cooking Option (Optional)
For a healthier twist, consider using whole grain bread instead of traditional white French bread. Additionally, blend a mixture of low-fat milk and almond milk in place of full cream for a lighter version. These substitutions will help reduce calories and enhance nutrient content, while still allowing you to savor a delicious breakfast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy Preparation
This Baked French toast recipe requires minimal hands-on time, making it ideal for busy mornings or when hosting guests. The prep can be done the night before, allowing you to simply bake it in the morning.
Nutritious & Delicious
Eggs and milk provide ample protein and calcium, while the cinnamon offers antioxidant benefits. Furthermore, substituting part of the cream with lower-fat alternatives makes this a balanced yet tasty breakfast choice.
Perfect for Brunch Gatherings
With its convenient make-ahead nature and crowd-pleasing taste, this dish is perfect for brunch gatherings. Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual get-together, this Baked French toast is sure to be a hit among guests.
Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Baked French toast is not only a delight to the taste buds but also a surefire way to start your day off with warmth and comfort.
