The Art of Making the Best Baked French Toast
Why Baked French Toast?
Baked French toast, unlike its pan-fried cousin, offers a level of convenience and decadence that’s hard to match. Imagine a golden, custardy casserole with a crispy, caramelized top—perfection in every bite!
Whether you're hosting brunch or just indulging on a lazy Sunday morning, this dish is a game-changer. Intrigued? Let’s dive in.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 loaf of day-old brioche or challah bread (thick slices work best)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups of whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional, but delightful)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- A handful of fresh berries or chopped nuts for garnish
Yes, it’s a lot, but trust me, every ingredient earns its place!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Bread
Cut your bread into thick, hearty slices. Don’t skimp on this step—the texture of the bread is everything. Let the slices sit out for a few hours (or overnight) to dry slightly. Fresh bread is too soft and won't absorb the custard properly.
2. Whisk the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well-combined—no clumps allowed!
3. Assemble the Dish
Layer the bread slices in a greased baking dish, slightly overlapping them like cozy shingles on a roof. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the top, ensuring every slice is thoroughly soaked.
Here’s the secret: let it sit for at least 30 minutes or, even better, refrigerate overnight. The longer the bread absorbs the custard, the more luxurious the texture.
4. Topping Magic
Combine the brown sugar and melted butter in a small bowl. Drizzle this golden elixir over the soaked bread for a crispy, caramelized crust that will make your guests swoon.
5. Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the French toast uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. Your kitchen will smell like heaven.
Serve and Savor
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle fresh berries or chopped nuts on top for a burst of flavor and texture. Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream—why not both?
This isn’t just baked French toast; it’s an experience. Dig in, and let the symphony of flavors transport you to breakfast nirvana.